Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has said preserving Maldivian identity, culture and national unity is essential to safeguarding the country's independence.

Speaking at the official Independence Day ceremony Sunday, Minister Heena said independence was more than a political agreement between two states, describing it instead as international recognition of a people's unique identity, culture and values. She said protecting those qualities was fundamental to preserving the Maldives' sovereignty.

The minister said every citizen had a responsibility to uphold the spirit of independence by passing on the sacrifices and experiences of previous generations to young people. She stressed the importance of nurturing patriotism, knowledge and strong moral values, adding that the government was working to strengthen Maldivian identity and nationalism as part of its efforts to safeguard the country's independence.

Reflecting on the Maldives' history, Minister Heena said past threats to the nation's independence had often stemmed from internal divisions, highlighting the need for unity and cooperation. Quoting the late Ibrahim Shihab, she said independence could only endure if people protected one another's interests, remained united despite their differences and placed the national interest above all else.

The Maldives celebrates Independence Day on 26 July to commemorate its independence from British protection in 1965, following the signing of an agreement between the governments of the Maldives and the United Kingdom.