President: Use modern technology to stay connected with loved ones

In a world where social distancing has become necessary to protect against the spread of the deadly new coronavirus, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on Saturday,  encouraged the Maldivian people to use modern technology to remain connected with loved ones.

The President, on Saturday evening, issued a written address on occasion of Eid al-Fitr.

The President noted that the Eid al-Fitr this year comes with the Maldivian people forced to stay home to protect against the coronavirus pandemic, and encouraged the people to celebrate the holiday by using modern technology to exchange greetings and remain connected to loved ones.

“This is most opportune to spend a happy time with the people you live with and to spend time with relatives and friends who live away, ask after their welfare, and exchange Eid greetings by using modes of communication,” said the President.

He said that Eid was a day to strengthen relationships through happiness, kindness and friendship.

“And I believe this is an especially opportune day to strengthen the bonds between siblings and the bonds between parents and children,” said the President.

He also encouraged the people to make productive use of the days under lockdown in general by looking after, and helping parents and children.

The President said the celebration of Eid must reach beyond social differences.

“Remembering that there are many within our community who are facing different dire circumstances due to COVID-19 and extending the hand of generous assistance to them will increase the blessings of Eid al-Fitr,” he said.

The President also noted that the measures implemented to curb the spread of the coronavirus have led to a cease in economic activity. He advised the people practice patience, reduce wastage, and other good habits which the holy month of Ramadan serves to promote.

“The key element required to overcome the difficult situation we face now, too, is solidarity and cooperation among the people. And the reason for the progress which has been made in the ongoing efforts to overcome this situation is, by the Grace of Allah, the cooperation by the people in complying with the instructions of health professionals and the friendship which exists among the people,” he said.