President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih says the army must always have "command and control" over safeguarding the nation from threats posed to its independence and sovereignty, from within and outside.
He made the remark while speaking at the official function held to mark the 130th anniversary of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
Speaking at the ceremony, President Solih stated that a nation's greatest asset is its independence and that the brave soldiers of MNDF are the first line of defense protecting the Maldives' independence and sovereignty.
The President spoke about the global threat of terrorism, stating that the Maldives is also at risk. He said that terrorists are keeping up with technological advancements and becoming more innovative, therefore, the Maldivian people must also be extra vigilant.
The President reiterated that soldiers are at the forefront of protecting citizens from such threats and that the administration places a high precedence on increasing defense capabilities.
He added that soldiers now have the opportunity to advance their careers based on their abilities without discrimination or gender bias.
