President: Most social issues can be solved with economic development

President Abdulla Yameen has said that the government gives high priority to economically and politically empowering youth, and that most social issues facing Maldives can be solved with economic development.

The President made this remark during a meeting with the new Ambassador of Belgium accredited to the Maldives, Jan Luykx, after he presented his credentials at a ceremony at President’s Office this morning.

Speaking at the meeting, President Yameen briefed the Belgian Ambassador on his visions for the development of the youth city in Hulhumalé. Highlighting his electoral pledges for the youth, the President said that the government attached high priority to economically and politically empowering youth. He underscored that most of the social issues can be solved with economic development. The President further reiterated the Maldives’ firm commitment to upholding our social, religious, and national values.

He also congratulated Luykx on the commencement of his term, and discussed global issues of mutual interest, such as human rights and environmental problems.

The President briefed the Belgian Ambassador on the progress of the use of solar power in the Maldives. He noted the increase in Maldives’ adaptation to green energy, and said that during peak hours power is generated through solar energy in some populous islands. He also noted that the operation of a fully solar powered resort in the Maldives shows the country’s commitment to adapting to clean energy.

Speaking at the meeting, Luykx said that it was a privilege to be appointed as the Ambassador to the Maldives, and assured the President of his commitment to enhancing the bilateral relations between the Maldives and Belgium.