President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called for the Maldives to achieve economic independence and free itself from the burden of debt, just as the nation was liberated from armed subjugation.

Speaking at the official Victory Day ceremony held at Republic Square tonight, Dr Muizzu said economic independence was fundamental to ensuring a prosperous and happy life for the people.

He noted that a country could protect its identity, religion and values without having to bow to others only when it had an independent economy. Otherwise, it would remain dependent on creditors and be compelled to accommodate their demands.

The President said the Government had safeguarded the country against warnings of bankruptcy, ended the practice of printing money and was repaying outstanding debts. These efforts, he added, were strengthening foreign investors’ confidence in the Maldives.

Highlighting efforts to protect national independence and sovereignty, President Dr Muizzu said the Government had established a foreign policy that prioritised national interests, repatriated foreign military personnel and withdrawn a letter concerning the relinquishment of part of the Maldives’ maritime territory. He also said work had begun internationally to reclaim the territory and that the military capabilities of the national defence force were being strengthened.

More than 1,000 young people have also graduated from the National Service Programme, launched to develop a generation with a national outlook, and are entering the workforce, he said.

With the country approaching the 40th anniversary of the November 3, 1988, attack, the President urged the nation to learn from history and place national unity and security above political emotions and personal grievances. He called for divisive conflicts to be set aside in the national interest and for transformative changes that would strengthen the economy.

President Dr Muizzu assured the public that the Government would take no action that compromises the Maldives’ Islamic identity, full independence or sovereignty, adding that all Government measures would prioritise the protection and security of national values.