The first couple of Maldives has attended the flag-hoisting ceremony to mark this year’s National Day.

The ceremony to hoist the flag in commemoration of National Day 1446, was held at the Republic Square and began at 6am on Wednesday.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his spouse, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed was accompanied by Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, his spouse Aishath Afreen Mohamed as well as senior officials of the government.

The first couple was received by Minister of Defense Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon and Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage, Adam Naseer Ibrahim upon arrival.

Alongside the flag-hoisting activity, a special prayer was observed to mark the significance of the occasion.

Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF)’s military band performed the national anthem of the island nation, for the conclusion.

Celebrated annually on the first of Rabi-ul-Awwal, the National Day serves as a solemn reminder of the valiant efforts of national hero al-Sultan al-Gazi Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-A’uzam in liberating the Maldives from Portuguese dominion.

The day is a tribute to the resilience and sacrifice that underpin the nation’s independence.