President Mohamed Nasheed and Madam Laila Ali have watched the parade, the route march and the cultural items held to celebrate the Independence Day, this evening.

Upon their arrival at the Republic Square, the President and the First Lady were greeted by Minister of Home Affairs Hassan Afeef and his wife Farhath Hussain Khalid.

The President was presented a presidential salute, following which the brass band of the Maldives National Defence Force played the National Anthem.

The Armed Forces Guard then trooped past the Presidential Stand.