Eid-Al-Adha provides a golden opportunity to strengthen bonds with family, friends, neighbors and loved ones, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Addressing the nation on the auspicious occasion of Eid-al-Adha which is being observed during a time the entire globe is locked in a battle against the Covid-19 pandemic, the president extended most sincere felicitations.

In his address, Solih shed light on the importance of peace, forgiveness, communal understanding, and unity above all else, on this holy day.

Much of the citizens' daily lives including how prayers are observed to fulfil religious obligations, have been affected by the pandemic, said the president, who stressed that Eid falls at a time Maldives is trying to adjust to a new normal.

In this regard, Solih urged the citizens to communicate with loved ones and inquire on their health and well-being while sending greetings of the auspicious occasion.

He further stressed on the importance of using modern technology to reach out to family members, especially the elderly or those who are vulnerable to the infection.

As such, the president pushed the citizens to speak to them affectionately, in keeping with the spirit of this holy occasion.

The president called on all citizens to pay close attention to the guidelines and instructions provided by medical professionals while celebrating Eid, in order to overcome the challenges facing our health, economy and livelihoods.

Solih ended his address by extending well wishes to the Muslim communities performing Hajj this year and prayed that their pilgrimage would be accepted.