President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has said that the biggest responsibility resting on our shoulders today was to carry our beloved motherland forward in full independence, and as a democratic republic, so that these blessings could reach our coming generations. The President made this remark while addressing the nation on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of National Independence.
In his address, President Yameen said that threats from outside were far more dangerous than those from within, and that we must be vigilant and watchful against such threats. He underlined the reality of attempts by developed and technologically more advanced countries, to interfere in domestic affairs of smaller and lesser developed countries, under the guise of ideology and cultural norms. The President also pointed out that such attempts that erode a country’s sovereign rights clearly contravene international norms and global compacts.
Recalling past experiences, the President reminded that political gain was not the sole factor behind every single attempt at compromising our independence, and that we should be mindful not to invite foreign intervention in so-called attempts at domestic dispute resolution and mediation. The President also noted that it was an unmistakable fact that attempts were being made through economics and finance, to exert unwarranted influence on our sovereignty.
In his speech, President Yameen said that economic prosperity was a prerequisite for a country’s people to reap the fruits of independence, and at the same time underscored that social harmony, peace and prosperity cannot be achieved without economic self-determination and improved standards of living.
Continuing on, the President stated that societal harmony and social development were the most important tools of nation building. He said that many of the negative influences of globalisation have found their way onto our shores, and sadly noted that at times the social fabric in the country was torn to shreds by such influences.
The President further said that many people in society have been plagued by ill-behaviour and lawlessness in recent years, as result of so-called attempts at improving fundamental liberties and human rights. He underlined that hatred and slander have shattered the centuries-old unity and harmony in our society, and that these concerns have escalated to such a level today, that as a result, our nation’s sovereignty and independence have come under repeated threat, and hampered our economic progress and prosperity.
