President Waheed has said that Maldives has always been an independent sovereign nation and that Maldivians would not accept any form of undue foreign influence on the country. He made the statement while addressing the people of Ken’dhikulhudhoo of North Miladhunmathi atoll.

The President said that the Maldivian people had worked very hard to achieve freedom and fundamental rights. He further noted the historic reform efforts that were undertaken in order to hold the first democratic elections in the Maldives.

In his speech, President Waheed also highlighted the efforts of a few Maldivians with the support of some foreign individuals to boycott Maldives’ tourism. President said the Maldives has now overcome such political challenges and was free from undue foreign influence.

During his visit to North Miladhunmathi atoll, President Waheed also visited Manadhoo and met with the people,

Addressing the people of Manadhoo, President reiterated his commitment to treat all citizens equally. He said he does not believe in the policy of giving discriminatory favours to people who belong to a particular political party, adding that such acts would only create discord among the people.

President also spoke on development pojects planned for the atoll.