President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and Vice President Ahmed Adheeb Abdul Ghafoor have seen off the Maldivian contingent taking part in the Indian Ocean Island Games (IOIG).
Speaking at the ceremony held at the President’s Office this morning, President Yameen expressed his delight that the Maldives’ representation at the IOIG coincided with the Independence Day celebrations. Furthermore, the President expressed his hopes that these games will bring great happiness to Maldivians, and commended the great efforts put into taking part in the games.
Noting that the IOIG contingent was the largest Maldivian contingent so far to take part in an international competition, the President stressed that all Maldivians were hoping for a medal. He said that the teams taking part must not play for the experience, and urged the athletes to aim for gold. The President also announced the Government’s decision to reward the athletes, provided they win in their respective categories.
Underlining the high priority accorded by the Government to the betterment of youth and sports, the President noted that the Government has addressed the issues previously raised by the IOIG athletes.
At today’s ceremony, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom handed over the Maldivian national flag to the flag bearer of the Maldives’ contingent, Hassan Saaid.
