President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has urged all to prioritise the national interest above all else.

The president made the appeal during a televised national address on Sunday, on the occasion of the country’s 55th Independence Day.

Calling on all in the political field “to prioritise the national interest above all else,” Solih stressed that there are “certain fundamental principles” to be agreed on despite the differences in opinion.

He added that “politicising every trivial thing to create divisions and strife within [the] community is a vice.”

Noting that the country’s multi-party democracy, President Solih stated that “individuals holding diverse views are welcomed to express their opinions and contribute to nation-building”. He added that his administration will “always value the input of those who disagree with it politically and welcomed their assistance in the pursuit of broad national interests.”

Further highlighting that the Maldives won its independence through “peaceful means and foresight,” the president emphasized that the country’s national policy priorities and political direction “must ensure that our continued independence is maintained through peaceful means.”

He stressed that an important part of this entails open engagement with the international community, adding that concerted global effort will be required to resolve pressing international issues, including recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic and addressing climate change.

Further reflecting on how far the nation has come through its reliance on two industries developed through its own efforts – tourism, and pole-and-line fishing – the president remarked that now is an opportune time to begin diversifying the country’s economy.

He said that the participation of women and youth in this endeavour “will be crucial”.

He also spoke on the importance of speedily expanding Maldives’ human resource capacity, so that the country can overcome the economic challenges of Covid-19.

Speaking further, Solih noted that Islam is the main source of the Maldives’ national pride. He stressed that the pillars upon which we have built our national identity have all been established through Islamic influences, and highlighted the importance of always preserving Islam and the other essential pillars that comprise the country’s national identity.

President Solih also stated that the country’s development compass “should be clear to all” after 55 years of independence, and reminded all of the responsibility to do their utmost to help the country develop and prosper.

The president also participated in the ceremonial flag hoisting ceremony on the occasion of the Maldives’ 55th Anniversary of Independence, early Sunday morning.

The ceremony was held at the Republic Square at 6am. Vice President Faisal Naseem and other senior government officials were also in attendance at the ceremony.