President: Maldivians partaking in foreign wars is a great national loss

The decision by some Maldivians led astray by extremist ideologies to take part in civil wars in foreign countries and carry out acts of terrorism is a huge loss to the entire Maldivian community, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the National Dialogue on Promoting Peace and Security at Hotel Jen this Tuesday morning, Solih said that extremism and terrorism was damaging both to national security and stability as well as the economy.

“Encouraging acts of extremism which lead to dispute and destabilizes the Maldivian community, is not in the best interest of anyone. I therefore appeal to the beloved citizens of Maldives not to encourage extremism and destroy the peace and stability of this nation,” said Solih.

He said that it was a misconception that any country free from civil war is a peaceful country. He stressed that no country is truly peaceful unless there is unity, empathy and compassion among its people.

“Without establishing peace among us within the country, we will be unable to seek peace elsewhere,” said Solih.

Solih said that every human being desired a peaceful and stable life free from conflict. He said that peace and prosperity to the Maldivian people was the objective behind every decision by the government.

“However, lulled in the sleep of peace and security, there are multiple threats forming unbeknownst behind the curtains. Negligence in bringing up our children in true Islamic faith has led to conflicts which should not exist among the Maldivian people,” said Solih.

He warned that it could lead to more and more Maldivians setting aside true Islamic values of peace and acceptance and falling under the claws of extremist ideologies.

He said that it could lead to ignorance and expression of ideas which degrade and undermine the Islamic faith.

Solih said the Maldivian administration’ first priority when it comes to the youth is to build an educated and capable generation who are well-versed in true Islamic faith and values, and are respectful and morally upstanding.