News Desk
MALE’ — Urging South Asian neighbors to put aside political disputes and prioritize regional peace, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu offered to take a lead role in reactivating the long-stalled South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), using his country’s national day address to position the island nation as an active diplomatic mediator.
Speaking on Sunday morning at the official ceremony marking the 61st Independence Day of the Maldives, President Muizzu argued that differences across the region can only be resolved through peaceful dialogue rather than military force. Urging member states to return to the negotiating table, he stated that the Maldives stands ready to spearhead efforts to bring SAARC back into operation.
The appeal formed the centerpiece of a wide-ranging address delivered during a high-profile national celebration in the capital, Malé. The event served not only to commemorate the nation’s independence but also as a platform for the government to present state honors and demonstrate its growing international ties.
Addressing the gathered dignitaries and the nation, President Muizzu stated that true national sovereignty requires complete autonomy in foreign relations, framing his administration’s “Maldivians First” policy as a proven success.
As evidence of the strategy’s traction, officials highlighted a record turnout of foreign representatives: 113 diplomats from 43 countries and multilateral bodies attended the festivities — the largest foreign diplomatic delegation present at a Maldivian Independence Day event in a decade.
The ceremony was graced by high-level foreign guests, including Prince Dr Mansour bin Mutaib bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Saudi Minister of State, who attended as guest of honor. Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, Dr Khalilur Rahman, also attended as a special guest of the government.
President Muizzu noted that rebuilding close ties with Arab and Islamic nations aligns with the cultural values and aspirations of the Maldivian people. While affirming his government’s commitment to maintaining friendly relations with almost all international partners, President Muizzu made one explicit exception: Israel. Condemning the ongoing conflict and violence in Gaza, he confirmed that the Maldives would maintain a firm stance against Israel over its actions in Palestine.
Beyond SAARC, the President highlighted the nation’s active involvement in other international groupings, including the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Commonwealth, and global forums tackling climate change.
Addressing domestic security and territorial integrity, President Muizzu reiterated his pledge to reclaim maritime areas that he argued were compromised under the previous administration. He confirmed that his government is enacting legal and legislative reforms to safeguard the nation’s borders and enforce its territorial rights under established frameworks.
The Independence Day occasion also served as a major state honours ceremony. President Muizzu conferred state awards and badges of honour upon 66 long-serving public servants in recognition of their prolonged service to the Maldivian state.
In addition, the nation’s highest honour — the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddeen (Nishan Izzuddeen) — was presented to two prominent financiers and tourism pioneers, Mohamed Moosa (Champa) and Hussain Afeef, for their lifelong contributions to the country.
