President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has said that the nation’s independence and sovereignty must not be compromised while facing major challenges, and has called on all citizens to consider protecting and upholding the Islamic faith and Maldivian nationhood as their foremost duty. The President made this statement in his address to the nation on the occasion of National Day, which was aired via local media at 10 am today.
In his nationwide address, President Yameen said that, all leaders and citizens in responsible positions must reflect the lessons learnt from marking the National Day, by putting national interests ahead of their personal interests, in resolving the challenges faced by the country. Highlighting the heroism of Al-Sultan Al-Ghaazee Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al-Auzam, the President said that the great example shown by Bodu Thakurufaanu was that of prioritizing national interests before all else, and that, the true meaning of Bodu Thakurufaanu’s struggle for the country’s salvation reposed in the example.
President Yameen further said that, the nation could remain steadfast in its Islamic faith, and retain its unity only by determining the real issues affecting it and working towards development in a cohesive fashion.
In his speech, the President noted that the most important task for the Maldives today is to strengthen its national economy, which must be fulfilled even if it required devoting our entire time to it.
The President added that the task also involved taking the nation to greater heights of prosperity and self-sufficiency, while striving to create a more caring and compassionate society. In this regard, the President said that his Government would do everything possible to achieve the said objectives with great resolve, and sail the roughest of seas to realize his visions for the Maldivian people.
In his speech, the President reiterated that he would discharge his responsibilities as President of the Maldives, while treating all people with justice and equality. President Yameen added that he would work with strong conviction and confidence to ensure that his Government receives the love and support of all citizens, peace is restored in the country and the changes aspired by the people are ushered in swiftly.
President Yameen concluded his address to the nation on National Day by conveying his New Year greetings to all citizens. He described the start of this year as “the beginning of a new term that will bring peace and prosperity by the Grace of Almighty Allah”, and as “the arrival of days that will see the revival of the spirit of nationhood among the Maldivian people”.