President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured the public that all Government decisions and actions will safeguard the Maldives’ Islamic identity, independence and sovereignty.

Speaking at the official Victory Day ceremony held at Republic Square tonight, President Dr Muizzu said every Government measure would ensure the full protection and security of the nation’s values.

He stressed that economic independence was essential to securing a prosperous and happy life for the people, noting that a strong economy would enable the Maldives to protect its identity, religion and values without external pressure.

The President said the Maldives must free itself from debt dependency, pursue transformative economic reforms and safeguard national sovereignty while ensuring financial stability. He also said the Government had averted warnings of bankruptcy, ended the practice of irresponsible borrowing and money printing, and was repaying outstanding debts, strengthening foreign investors’ confidence.

Highlighting efforts to protect national interests, President Dr Muizzu said foreign military personnel had been repatriated, a letter concerning the relinquishment of part of the Maldives’ maritime territory had been withdrawn, and efforts to reclaim the territory had begun at the international level. He added that the capabilities of the national defence force were being strengthened.

More than 1,000 young people have also graduated from the Dhivehi Vaishaa Service and are entering the workforce, he said.

Recalling his first address to the public at Republic Square after taking the presidential oath on 17 November 2023, President Dr Muizzu reiterated his commitment to giving equal priority to spiritual and material development.

With the 40th anniversary of the November 3, 1988, attack approaching, he called on the nation to learn from history and place national unity and security above political emotions, personal grievances and divisions.