President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has underscored the utmost priority and the bases of all the policies implemented by the administration have been national security, sovereignty and protection from foreign influence and calls upon citizens to be watchful for actions that might compromise national security. Addressing the nation from the President's Office, President Abdulla Yameen seemed to justify certain actions taken and policies implemented during his tenure.
Noting it is the last days he will be in office, President Yameen reiterated the administration designed government policies for the benefit of the country. In this regard, the president noted the foreign policy of the administration included forging closer ties with Arab-Islamic nations and neighbourly countries while supporting the fight against terrorism.
Shedding light on the boldest foreign policy move by the outgoing government, President Yameen said the withdrawal from the Commonwealth was a move taken to protect the country from foreign influences. However, the president claimed today's political currents allow foreign interference in internal matters and therefore, Maldivians should be aware of foreign interference in internal matters.
Noting it could be incredible to believe in the several achievements of such a small state within such a short period of time, the president rejoiced in the fact that several grievances of the public have been addressed. Reiterating maintaining the independent sovereignty and nationalism of the country was the policy of the administration, President Yameen stressed achieving self-sufficiency was the biggest effort towards this objective.
Highlighting all actions of the outgoing government reflected the interests of all citizens, the president accused some leaders of side-lining national interest in favour of personal interest, resulting in obstruction to national progress.
On conclusion, the president maintained he implemented justice in accordance with set laws and regulations. He said that even today, any complaint he lodges, is in the interest of the people and thereby he has no regrets.