President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the Velana New Terminal at Velana International Airport represents a milestone for the Maldives, reflecting what is possible through collective effort and sustained partnership.

The ceremony, held on the country’s 60th Independence Day, was used by the President to reinforce the link between national sovereignty and economic self-reliance. He said the decision to hold the event on such a significant day was deliberate, as the new terminal represents the most critical component of the airport and, by extension, the foundation of the nation’s economic future.

The terminal spans 72,000 square metres and is designed to serve up to 7.5 million passengers each year. With 12 boarding bridges and 47 check-in counters, it is a significant upgrade to the country’s main gateway and is expected to enhance tourism and broader economic development.

President Dr Muizzu acknowledged the scale of the effort behind the project, which took over a decade to reach this stage, and noted that it involved the work of many across multiple administrations. He thanked former Presidents Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih for their contributions, stating that without the combined efforts of all involved, the project may have faced further delays beyond its initial timeline.

He also expressed gratitude to key international partners, including the Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund, Abu Dhabi Fund and OFID, for providing the necessary financial support beyond what was allocated by the Maldivian government. Their assistance, he said, made this level of development possible.

Beyond infrastructure, the President took the opportunity to urge national unity. Emphasising shared identity — one language, one religion, one past — he called on all Maldivians to put the nation above personal interests. According to President Dr Muizzu, sustainable development will only be possible if citizens work with one purpose and one voice.

He described the inauguration as the beginning of a new chapter and encouraged Maldivians to recognise the value of this moment, not just as a completed project but as a collective achievement and a springboard for future progress.

“This,” he said, “can take the Maldives to even greater heights.”