President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said that one of the biggest lessons from the Victory Day is the importance of having unconditional love for the land of our birth.

The President made the statement in a message published in the 28th edition of “Addana”, an annual magazine by the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) on November 3rd, to commemorate this occasion.

The President described the failed coup d'état of 3 November 1988, attempted by local discontents and aided by armed foreign mercenaries, where 19 locals lost their lives, a dark day for the Maldives and as one of the most brutal and deadly assaults on the nation’s independence.

Acknowledging the heroism and bravery of the fallen, President Solih expressed that we must learn from our past and gather inspiration as we commemorate Victory Day. He added that the heroic actions of the martyrs defending our country and religion symbolize their patriotism and affirmed that the Maldivian armed forces continue to display that same bravery and love towards their country, and that our citizens will always remain grateful for their selflessness and valor on 3 November. He further added that the unity and compassion demonstrated by the Maldivian population on that day remain intact even today.

Concluding his remarks, the President acknowledged the perseverance of the Maldivian people and thanked all involved in foiling the attack on our beloved nation. He added a note of appreciation to India, for their swift intervention upon the request from the Maldivian Government.