President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that holistic development can be easily achieved through work that prioritizes national interest. He said this while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the new terminal at Velana International Airport.
At this special moment, celebrating both the opening of the new terminal and the 60th Independence Day of the Maldives, the President appealed to resolve to prioritize the nation. Reminding that Maldivians are a people who speak one language, follow one religion, and share one history, he said that prioritizing the nation over personal interests and prejudices is a responsibility on every Maldivian’s shoulders to ensure a happy and prosperous country for future generations. He stated that this new terminal is also a symbol of success achieved through collaborative efforts towards development.
“Today, we must all resolve to prioritize the Maldivian nation above everything else that each of us has. We must resolve to move forward together, rolling up our sleeves,” said President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
The President also shed light on the wisdom behind deciding to open this new terminal on Independence Day. He highlighted the importance of economic independence in maintaining the country’s independence, stating that the airport is the most important pillar of economic independence. He expressed hope that this work will continue to boost tourism in particular and the overall economic growth in general.
“In advancing this nation, in bringing good and benefit to this country, we must speak in one voice. One song. We must speak in one language, one tone, one rhythm. Then, God willing, we can do the best for this country. We can deliver this country to future generations in happiness and prosperity. That is a responsibility placed on each of our heads. It is the duty of each of us. It is a reality that none of us can escape from,” said President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Noting that the work on the new terminal has taken about ten years, the President acknowledged and thanked all parties involved in various stages of the work. He specifically mentioned former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and former Gayoom and former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
In addition to the expenditure from the Maldivian government’s budget, the President thanked the four funds that provided all the necessary assistance for this work: the Saudi Fund for Development, the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, as well as the countries these institutions belong to.
Furthermore, the President thanked all parties who collectively participated in expediting the work and completing it.
He stated that success is achieved through the hard work of many people together, and tonight they are celebrating such a historic success.
