Maldives can follow India in strengthening the democratic environment created by the new constitution- Shahid

Speaker of the Peoples’ Majlis, Abdullah Shahid has said that he believes that the Maldives can follow India’s footsteps in strengthening our country’s democratic environment created by the new constitution embraced in august 2008.
Abdullah Shahid said this speaking at the ceremony held at Dharubaaruge Rannabandeyri Hall last night to mark the 61st Anniversary of India’s Republic Day.
Speaking at the ceremony which was organised by the High Commission of India, Shahid said that “Under Prime Minister Singh’s leadership, India highlights that democracy, coupled with economic liberalization and protection for the most vulnerable members of society, is the right model for country’s progressive and formidable development.”
The Speaker said that he notes the development projects that are in process between the legislative assemblies of both countries with pride, in his new capacity as Speaker of the People’s Majlis,.
He said that he believes that India’s expertise in the field of legislature is of paramount importance. It is also ample proof that India knows no bounds in the provision of assistance to the Maldives, said Shahid.
“Every strong relationship fosters a vision. Yes the Maldives and India shares a vision. A vision for the betterment of its people. A vision that aspire for the welfare, progress and prosperity of our societies. A vision richly coloured by the principles of democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law,” the Speaker said.
Shahid also highlighted that Maldives and India has had strong ties of friendship since time immemorial, be it culture, education, commerce or good governance and democratic legislature, both our countries have shared strong relationships.
“Today with globalization, the India-Maldives friendship has reached higher levels and gained stronger grounds with commitment and effort from the leadership of both countries. This iconic relationship is based on Trust. On confidence. On true diplomacy. And most importantly on respect for our peoples,” he said.
Shahid also noted the fact that India is proudly the world’s largest democracy. He said that India’s growing prominence on the international stage is a cause for celebration.
“I believe that the Maldives has learned much and has much to learn from India. Also, the Maldives has benefited from continuous technical and grant assistance in all key areas of national development, particularly in health, education and human resource development,” he said.