President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, while speaking during the function held at Dharubaaruge to mark International Women’s Day, pledged Administration support and corporation on further empowering women. The President was accompanied by First Lady Fathimath Ibrahim, Vice President Abdulla Jihad, Cabinet Ministers and senior officials of his administration.

In his speech the President emphasized that the hard work undertaken by women within their communities does not go not unrecognized – the foundation of Maldives’ socio-economic growth was based on women and their hard work, the President acknowledged.

The President also touched on the invaluable efforts by the Maldives’ first President Sumuvvul Ameer Mohamed Ameen Dhoshimeyna Kilegefaanu to promote and empower women in Maldives. He further recognized that the norm of formal women’s education began during President Ameen’s term.

In his speech the President stated that the true character of men is judged by the manner in which they engage with women within families and society. He appealed to all Maldivians to be supportive and helpful in the endeavors carried out by women.

The President also, during today’s function, conferred the Rehendi Award to this year’s recipients, in recognition of their outstanding service to national. First Lady Fathimath Ibrahim presented the commemorative brooches to the recipients.