Minister of Defense Ghassan Maumoon has underscored the importance of self-reliance in protecting the freedom and sovereignty of the Maldives. Despite the strength of relations with other countries, Minister Ghassan emphasised that crucial tasks like safeguarding national independence should be undertaken independently, without dependence on external entities. The remarks were made in response to questions raised by the parliamentarians.
During the parliament sitting, Parliamentarian Hassan Latheef inquired regarding the work of foreign countries assisting to monitor the Maldives Economic Zone. His inquiry aimed to Minister Ghassan questioned whether or not the minister plans to hold discussions with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to obtain support from other countries to monitor the economic zone, with an aim to strengthen foreign ties.
In response to this, the minister affirmed that he will prevent any such situations ensuring they will not take place as long as he remains in office. He unveiled his firm belief and his patriotic personality stating that Maldives should be independent to carry out their own responsibilities and duties after standing up on their own feet, without relying consistently on other. The minister assured that he would not hold discussions with the president to obtain foreign assistance to monitor the Economic zone of the country stating that the work should be done by enhancing the defense system of the nation.
Minister Ghassan revealed that despite Maldives being a country holding strong bonds with other nations, the responsibility of safeguarding the nations independence and sovereignty is solely of the Maldives itself. The query raised by Hassan Latheef was posed to the minister shortly after the utilisation of military drones by Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF). While members of the opposition party claimed that this was a costly decision, the government disclosed that most of the facilities were provided from the Turkish government as a donation.