QUOTE
Malé, 26 July 2021
On the occasion of the 56th Anniversary of Independence I wish to convey warm greetings to all the Maldivians residing in Bangladesh. I would also like to take this opportunity to extend warm wishes to the Government and the people of Bangladesh with whom we share over 43 years of close and friendly relations.
Fifty six years ago today, the Maldives attained full independence and sovereignty, and embarked on the quest of nation building. Today, as we celebrate the social and economic progress we have achieved, we are reminded that our progress has not only been the result of the strong commitment of the Maldivian people, but also with the support of our friends and development partners in the international community.
I had the honour and privilege of visiting Bangladesh just a few months ago at the invitation of my counterpart and friend, His Excellency Md. Abdul Hamid, Honourable President of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, to celebrate the Birth Centenary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the Golden Jubilee of Bangladesh’s independence. Following this visit, our development partnership and close friendship have elevated to new heights. I would also like to thank Honourable Prime Minister, Her Excellency Sheikh Hasina and the Government of Bangladesh for the generous assistance extended to the Maldives in combating the Covid-19 pandemic on multiple fronts. The people of the Maldives and I are indebted to the Government and the people of Bangladesh for their enduring kindness.
The Maldives and Bangladesh share much in common. Our two Islamic countries aspire to achieve higher levels of socio-economic development for our citizens, and we stand on common ground in the international arena, as we advocate for addressing pressing issues of common concern, such as climate change and the resulting rise in sea level. Our bonds remain strong, with Bangladesh being one of the main contributors to the human resource development of the Maldives through education and training. The Maldives is also host to a large number of Bangladeshi migrant workers who contribute significantly to the economic development of the country.
I remain confident that the decades of friendship and cooperation between the Maldives and Bangladesh will continue to expand further in the years to come.
I wish continued peace, progress and prosperity for the people of Bangladesh.
Ibrahim Mohamed Solih
President of the Republic of Maldives
UNQUOTE
