President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has today met with the athletes and officials who represented the Maldives at the Special Olympics – World Games 2019 in Abu Dhabi from 14 to 21 March 2019. The meeting was held this morning at the President’s Office.

The 2019 Special Olympics World Games was a multi-sport event for athletes with intellectual disabilities in the tradition of the Special Olympics movement. Two female and two male athletes took part in the games, where Shifna Ibrahim who competed in the Women’s 100-meter running in the New Nations Category secured gold, while Wasmee Waheed secured silver in the men’s 200-meter running.

Speaking at the meeting, President Solih congratulated the Maldives’ team on behalf of the government and the people of the Maldives, for their remarkable achievements in the competition. He also conveyed his appreciation and gratitude for the team’s hard work and unwavering efforts.

The President then inquired on the challenges being faced by the athletes, and asked about their experiences during the competition. The President further exchanged ideas on ways to resolve the issues being faced.

At the meeting, members of the Maldives’ team spoke on the numerous efforts being put in by the Special Olympics Committee, in facilitating children with disabilities with various opportunities. They also shared with the President, plans to continue to take part in upcoming international competitions.