Speaking at the inauguration of National NGO Forum 2010, President Mohamed Nasheed has said civil society contribution is essential for development

He said a mechanism in which the civil society could support and assist in implementing government’s development projects should also be made clearer.

Further underscoring the role of civil society in development, the President noted that during the current year, the Maldives has this year begun a number of development projects – a number that exceeds the total number of projects started in any other year.

President said the government’s aim was to improve livelihoods of the people and to bring about general prosperity in the country through economic and social development.