Pres. calls to demonstrate same spirit of closeness, unity as during Tsunami tragedy

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has called to project the same spirit of closeness and unity as they did post the tragedy of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, when working to settle national issues.

The president made the remarks while addressing the nation at the special ceremony held to present the National Awards and to commemorate National Unity Day on Saturday night.

He noted that that 16 years ago, Maldivians "had displayed exemplary kindred, unification, and fraternal ties despite the incident's trying aftermath."

The president also stressed the importance of understanding the country's status as one of the most vulnerable to climate change, when memorializing the tragic tsunami, and went on to implore that the public participate in and support this administration's initiatives to conserve the natural environment.

Alluding to the Maldives' efforts to reach net-zero emissions by 2030, which he announced earlier this month, President Solih especially emphasized the need for support from private companies, NGOs and individuals in achieving this mammoth task.

President Solih also identified the industry most critical to stimulate the Maldivian economy as the fisheries industry, and highlighted some of his administration's undertakings geared towards developing the trade, including addressing fishermen's concerns directly and crafting government policy so it stays in line with making the industry a more profitable working environment for fishermen.

The National Awards and Unity Day Ceremony held last night in Republic square was also attended by the First Lady Fazna Ahmed, Vice-President Faisal Naseem, ministers and other government dignitaries.

A moment of silence was observed during the ceremony in memory of all those who had been lost to the tragic 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.