President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has said that Maldivians want to remain as an independent and sovereign State, making their own choices. He made this statement while speaking at the function held in Kudahuvadhoo Island, to celebrate the completion of the island’s land reclamation and road construction projects, and relocation of Vaanee citizens to Kudahuvadhoo.
The President said that his administration’s highest priority was fulfilling the people’s aspirations. However, he sadly noted that the slander being spread about the Maldives by some Maldivians was casting a shadow over attaining assistance from foreign organisations.
Speaking in this regard, the President reiterated that the Government will not tolerate any threat to the sovereignty of the country, in return for foreign assistance. He stated that giving up our individuality, and going along with every suggestion from international bodies would strip us of our independent and sovereign status. The President underscored that it was our responsibility to fix the loopholes in our systems, however he noted that it does not mean giving up our own rights.
In his speech, the President reiterated the Government’s request to the opposition to cooperate with the Government in holding peaceful dialogue. In this regard, the President said that this administration carries out all its endeavours while peacefully giving the space for contradicting opinions. He also called for everyone to come together and work for the betterment of the Maldivian people and the country.
