The first couple has met the Maldivian contingent participating in the 11th edition of the Indian Ocean Island Games (IOIG).

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and First Lady Fazna Ahmed met the Maldivian contingent participating in this year’s IOIG, at the Maldives Center for Social Education (MCSE) on Sunday.

Renowned tennis player Abdulla Faih Fazeel and Maldivian table tennis prodigy Fathimath Dheema Ali were announced as the flag bearers for the Maldives at IOIG 2023, to be held in the Republic of Madagascar.

The flag of Maldives to be flown during the games, was presented to Dheema by President Solih.

At this year’s highly anticipated IOIG, a total of 176 Maldivian athletes will be competing in nine sporting events and a youth camp. Some of the sports include table tennis, tennis, handball, para-athletics, swimming, and basketball.

The incumbent administration of President Solih places high priority on paving the path for opportunities for Maldivian athletes to realize their full potential and on promoting a talented, capable and healthy young generation.

The 11th edition of IOIG is slated to run from August 25 to September 3.