President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said that his Administration's highest priority is to ensure the independence and sovereignty of the country. The President made these remarks speaking at the inaugural session of the “MNDF Commanders Conference 2020” this morning at the Maldives Defense Force Headquarters.

Speaking at the conference, President Solih noted the many challenges and threats faced because of the changing international security situation. He further stated that under his leadership, he will ensure that security forces are well-equipped and trained to have the necessary skills as well as provided pertinent resources such as vessels and other necessities.

Moreover, the President remarked on the patriotic duty of the security forces to ensure the complete safety and security of the Maldivian citizens and highlighted the need for constant training and refresher programmes to retain and enhance the necessary skills. In this regard, President Solih highlighted the significance of conferences similar to these seeing participation from officers from different regional command centres in the country.

Furthermore, President Solih urged participants to utilise the information and ideas gained from the conference to enhance their capacity and improve professionalism in combatting emerging security threats, while prioritising the most urgent internal and global security issues. Moreover, President Solih stressed the value of security forces focalising their operations along the lines of the Administration’s decentralized governance system.

The aim of this three-day conference includes developing leaders and commanders of the MNDF joint force through increased compatibility, adaptability and decisiveness with clearer command philosophy and military professionalism.