President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called on Maldivians to uphold the spirit of patriotism and preserve the national identity of the Maldives.

In a National Day message posted on X, President Dr Muizzu commemorated the successful jihad that liberated the Maldives from Portuguese colonial rule 467 years ago.

The President said the Maldives had repeatedly suffered when it came under foreign influence, and stressed the need to renew the nation’s commitment to prevent such experiences from being repeated.

He also called on Maldivians to safeguard the country’s sovereignty, independence and national identity, and to stand against actions that could cause harm to the nation and its people.

Extending National Day greetings, President Dr Muizzu expressed hope that the national spirit would be strengthened in the heart of every Maldivian.