PRESIDENT SOLIH ANNOUNCES FIRST 100 DAYS’ GOALS SET BY HIS ADMINISTRATION

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced the first 100 days’ goals set by his administration. The President made this announcement in his address to the nation following the inauguration.

In his speech, the President assured that by the end of the first 100-day period, electricity prices will be reduced, tuition fees will be fully covered for undergraduate students, and school students will be provided free breakfast. He also stated that his administration will allow Pension funds to be utilized by Hajj pilgrims.

Continuing in this regard, the President noted that the issuance of fishing permits for foreigners will cease, and those import duties levied on agricultural capital will also be eliminated during his first 100 days in office.

In addition, the President stated that the Maldives will further consolidate its global position as a leader in climate action amongst Small Island Developing States, and will strive to become the leading advocate for this cause. He also said that green tax will be introduced in the Maldives, and its revenues will be funneled towards environmental protection programmes.

Further announcing his administration’s 100 days’ goals, President Solih noted that an equitable housing programme will be established, as informed by needs assessments conducted by councils. Moreover, he said that within 100 days, an air ambulance service will be launched across the Maldives to accelerate emergency response. Additionally, he noted that the National Mental Health Institute will be established where health costs will be covered by Aasandha. He also stated that Councils will reclaim its autonomy that has been eroded.  Read more

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IBRAHIM MOHAMED SOLIH SWORN IN AS THE 7TH PRESIDENT OF THE MALDIVES

H.E. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has sworn in as the 7th President of the Republic of Maldives. The President took his oath of office at the Special Assembly of the People’s Majlis held at the National Stadium this evening.

The oath was administered by the Chief Justice, Hon. Dr. Ahmed Abdulla Didi.

Following his oath-taking, President Solih signed the Instrument of Oath, and the Chief Justice and the Speaker of the People’s Majlis signed as witnesses.

It was then followed by a 21-gun salute and the National Anthem.

The Vice President-Elect Faisal Naseem was also sworn into office at today’s inaugural ceremony. The oath was administered by the Chief Justice. Vice President Naseem signed the Instrument of Oath thereafter.

The Presidential Inauguration ceremony was attended by Prime Minister of India H.E. Narendra Modi, Former President of Sri Lanka H.E. Chandrika Kumaratunga, and other high-level foreign delegates.

Also in attendance at the inauguration were former President H.E. Uz. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, former President H.E. Mohamed Nasheed, and former President H.E. Dr. Mohamed Waheed.

Source: Presidency Maldives

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Statement on sexual harassment allegations against a senior official of the Ministry

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that a complaint has been lodged today with the Committee established in the Ministry to receive, investigate and handle all complaints relating to sexual abuse and harassment, under the Act No. 16/2014 (Sexual Abuse and Harassment Prevention Act).

The Committee is currently investigating the complaint.

The Ministry is working towards strengthening existing institutional mechanisms to address issues of sexual harassment, to ensure zero tolerance towards sexual harassment within the institution and also to ensure a safe working environment for all its staff.

ENDS

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Statement by the Government of Maldives with regard to the case of the Saudi citizen Mr. Jamal Ahmad Kashoggi

It was with deep concern that the Government and the people of Maldives received the news of the confirmation that the death of Saudi citizen Mr. Jamal Ahmad Kashoggi, took place within the compound of the Consulate of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Istanbul, Turkey, on 2 October 2018.

At this time of anguish and mourning, the Government and the people of Maldives express sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Mr. Kashoggi and the Government and the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Government of Maldives is confident that a thorough and transparent investigation will be conducted and those responsible for this act would be brought to justice. In this regard, the Government of Maldives welcomes the decisive measures taken by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to ensure transparency, fairness and the application of law to all without any exceptions.

As two Islamic brotherly countries, the Maldives and Saudi Arabia remain close allies and enjoy most cordial relations between the two countries. The two countries also cooperate closely at the multilateral fora on important international issues of mutual concern.

END

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PRESIDENT YAMEEN CALLS UPON MALDIVIANS TO MAINTAIN PEACE AND PROSPERITY WITHIN THE NATION

President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has called upon the Maldivian people to maintain peace and prosperity within the nation. He made this remark while delivering the Presidential address this afternoon at the President’s Office.

Speaking during the Presidential address, President Yameen emphasized that this administration has always worked on constructing and maintaining a strong foreign relation with other nations, particularly countries in this region. Speaking in this regard, the President shed light on the collaborative work carried out with other countries on issues like terrorism and radicalism.

Moreover, the President stated that the interference of external parties in our countries internal affairs will not be tolerated and stated that protecting the nation has always been top-most priority in his administration.

The President also underlined that any small Island nation like Maldives should always give significant importance on maintaining the peace and sovereignty of the country. In addition to this, the President stated that the current administration worked on bringing development and prospering the nation while giving high prominence for the security of the people of Maldives.

During the Presidential address, the President noted that the nation’s interest is more important than any individual’s interest, hence called upon the people to put forth the interest of the nation before putting forward any individual interest. He also shed light on the administration’s work in defending Maldives from external influences.
Source: Presidency Maldives

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