President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated the development projects planned by his administration will continue despite the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Addressing the nation on the occasion of Republic Day, President Solih stated the administration will ensure the development projects planned across the country continue, despite the impact of COVID-19 on the economic and financial situation of the country. The president noted 372 development projects have been started by his administration, of which 154 projects are currently ongoing. He added a further 156 projects will be commenced in the near future.
President Solih stated 56 projects will be conducted next year for the development and decentralisation of the health sector. As such, he noted the development of 5 tertiary hospitals will continue next year, adding the benefits of the hospitals will reach the public by the end of next year.
The president further highlighted the priority placed by his administration on developing human resources and capacity. As such, he noted the projects planned for 2021 include building the infrastructure and facilities required to establish a holistic educational system in 5 different regions of the country.
President Solih stated one of the proudest accomplishments of his administration is facilitating the opportunity for over 8,200 students to seek higher education through the Free Degree Scheme introduced by the administration. He also noted 1,082 students are currently undertaking their higher studies in 23 different countries, under student loans provided by the government.
In his address, President Solih also highlighted the progress achieved by the Maldives in the foreign sector over the last two years. In this regard, he noted the Maldives has built close ties with the international community after a period of time during the previous administration when international ties had deteriorated. He said, as a result, the Maldives has been able to acquire financial assistance from several countries amid the COVID-19 pandemic.