On the joyous occasion of the 59th Independence Day of the Maldives, I
extend, with a heart filled with gratitude, my warm greetings and felicitations
to you all. I thank Almighty Allah, for his benevolence and compassion, and
blessing our beloved nation with independence and lasting peace.
As we mark 59 years to our independence, we must remember the road we
took and the sacrifices we made, and continue to make, for our sovereignty
and independence. Today, we remember the bravery and courage of those
who sacrificed their lives for our independence. With humble prayers and
heartfelt gratitude, we extend our deep thanks.
Our nation was spared the severe hardships and bloodshed that befell other
nations that fought for independence. Yet, amid turbulent global upheaval
against colonialism, redrawing of global borders, and the emergence of
unprecedented and unique challenges of the 21st century, we showed the
resilience of our small nation.
Our terms were simple. Grant us our right to self-determination. Give us the
authority to shape and develop our nation on our terms.
Our foreign policy, over the course of five decades, has been based on these
principles. Our firm belief in respect under international law, adherence to a
rule-based and inclusive international system, non-interference in internal
affairs, mutual respect and diplomacy has ensured that Maldives reaped the
best outcome for the Maldives, in a global arena that is prone to constant
upheaval.
As we mark our 59th year of independence, the Maldives stands at the
precipice of an ever-changing world. The aspirations of our people, of a better
future, is paramount for this administration. This cannot be achieved without
the unwavering safeguarding of our independence.
Our stance is very clear – Maldives first. That is the red line the Maldives will
never cross.
In the pursuance of our sovereignty and independence, we have made
remarkable progress. We have succeeded in the removal of foreign military
presence in the Maldives, by adhering to diplomatic practices. The
administration has prioritized bolstering our national security, by introducing
air corps and drone technology to monitor our vast seas.
We have achieved significant milestones in the pursuit of our developmental
journey. The partnerships we have developed over the years, carefully
nurtured on the bedrock of mutual respect, continue to support our economy
and push for positive transformation.
Today, my appeal to you all, our diplomats in the Maldives Foreign Service,
and officials in the High Commissions and Embassies of the Maldives across
the globe, is to adhere to and uphold our foreign service tenets. Always
remember, though the Maldives may be small, we are a proud, independent
nation. Our actions should reflect this spirit.
I urge all Maldivians to take a more active role in nation building. With united
and consistent effort, we are poised to transform the Maldives into a better
nation for all.
May Allah Almighty continue to bless our nation with peace and success.
