President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced the goals set by the new administration for the first 100 days. The president made the announcement in his address to the nation after swearing-in.
In the speech, President Solih assured by the end of the first 100-day period, electricity prices will be reduced, tuition fees will be fully covered for undergraduate students, and school students will be provided free breakfast. The new administration will allow pension funds to be utilised by Hajj pilgrims, noted the president.
Continuing, the president highlighted the issuance of fishing permits for foreigners will cease, and those import duties levied on agricultural capital will also be eliminated during his first 100 days in office. In addition, the president stated the Maldives will further consolidate its global position as a leader in climate action amongst Small Island Developing States, and will strive to become the leading advocate for this cause adding that green tax will be introduced in the Maldives, and its revenues will be funnelled towards environmental protection programmes.
Further announcing first 100 days goals, President Solih noted an equitable housing programme will be established, as informed by needs assessments conducted by councils. Moreover, the president said within 100 days, an air ambulance service will be launched across Maldives to accelerate emergency response. Additionally, noting the National Mental Health Institute will be established where health costs will be covered by the national healthcare insurance scheme, the president revealed that local government councils will reclaim its autonomy that has been eroded.
Looking back on the past 5 years, President Solih noted it is rather apparent Maldives had regressed into a policy of isolationism, estranged from the wider international community. The president also noted that everyone has a national responsibility, sacred and duty-bound, to preserve the sovereignty and hold up national security. Further, President Solih noted the foreign policy of Maldives will be fundamentally hinged on advancing policies that have a stake in the progress and welfare of the country. He also noted the administration’s foreign policy will be formulated on the basis of human rights, democracy, and climate diplomacy.
Speaking in this regard, President Solih highlighted he will endeavour to fortify the existing ties the Maldives has had with India and other regional countries. He said Maldives will hereupon bolster its shared role to retain enduring peace and harmony of the Indian Ocean. Further President Solih emphasised Maldives is open and willing to establish diplomatic relations, and strengthen existing ties with all countries that wish to form mutually beneficial development partnerships.
Highlighting the coalition government that comes to power today, the president noted with the blessings of Almighty Allah, the party leaders will work together to bring new heights of progress and development to the country. He also assured not to leave room for it to be said that he did not take sufficient action to try and work with differing political views.