Maldives First Couple has attended the celebratory event held at the National Stadium on Friday, in commemoration of Maldives’ 54th anniversary of independence from the British.

The cultural festivities were also attended by Vice President Faisal Naseem and spouse Aishath Shamsada.

Minister of Home Affairs, Sheikh Imran Abdulla had received the First Couple upon their arrival with a presidential salute by the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF).

Following the salute, the national anthem was performed by a combined ensemble orchestra including band members from different schools and the MNDF.

President Solih was then saluted by the Armed Forces Guard who trooped past the presidential stand at the ceremony, followed by a communal squad from schools.

While Maldives celebrates her independence on 26 July every year since gaining independence from the British on the 26 July 1965 after 77 years as a British protectorate, this year’s celebrations were held vibrantly with the inclusion of many cultural and musical performances by local schools and the MNDF.

Some of the schools that performed include, Falaah Pre School, Dharumavantha School, Muhyiddin School, Iskandhar School, Rehendhi School and Villa International School