President Dr Mohamed Waheed and First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain have hosted the official reception on the occasion of the Independence Day of the Maldives. The reception was held at the National museum this evening.
The Maldives National Defence Force saluted the arrival of the President and the First Lady, by playing the national anthem.
Following the national anthem, the President addressed the guests present at the reception, and conveyed Independence Day felicitations to the people of the Maldives.
In his speech, the President said that the independence of our country signifies the valuable services and sacrifices of our forefathers.
Highlighting that this country is known to be peaceful and brotherly, the President spoke on the changes that the country has experienced over time.
The President conveyed his hopes of regaining the peace and quiet that we used to have. He further reiterated that we all have to be much more forgiving, caring, and always consider national interest above our personal interests, to achieve the peace and harmony we desire.
The President and the First Lady greeted the invitees and guest at the reception, and exchanged independence day greetings.
The Vice President, Speaker of the Parliament, the Chief Justice, Cabinet Ministers, Members of the Parliament, State Ministers, foreign dignitaries who arrived for the Independence Day functions, Executives of the Government, heads of various independent agencies, and political leaders were in attendance at the reception.
