President sends New Year greetings

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has extended greetings to the people of the Maldives on the occasion of New Year.

The president said that it gave him great pleasure to extend New Year greetings and warm wishes to the beloved people of the Maldives, and while 2012 saw major political challenges, it was nonetheless a year in which steps were taken with patience to maintain the security, safety and harmony of the country and its people.

He said that the country will hold its presidential election in 2013, and assured the people that the government will take all necessary measures to ensure a free and fair election.

The president urged the people to strengthen harmony and unity that have existed in the Maldives for several years while they prepare for the elections. He appealed to the people not to allow anyone disrupt the social harmony.

He said that the government will continue to provide security and improve the general welfare of the people within the means of the budget and called upon the people to put national interest ahead of political interests.

“I pray that the year 2013 be a successful year for the Maldives. And with the blessings of Almighty Allah, may the New Year bring greater peace and harmony, and allow us to achieve greater national development and progress,” the president said.