The Maldives celebrated its 61st Independence Day on Sunday with a series of national events, bringing together senior government officials, foreign dignitaries and members of the public to commemorate the nation's independence, unity and identity.

This year's celebrations were graced by His Royal Highness Prince Dr Mansour bin Mutaib bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and Member of the Cabinet of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, who attended as the Guest of Honour, underscoring the close and longstanding ties between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia.

The main Independence Day ceremony was held at Republic Square, where President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed received a Presidential Salute, accompanied by a 21-gun salute.

The programme featured a ceremonial march-past by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and contingents of the Maldives National Cadet Corps (MNCC) representing 15 schools. Students from schools across the capital also presented cultural performances celebrating Maldivian heritage, while the MNDF staged military displays showcasing discipline, professionalism and national pride.

The celebrations concluded with a spectacular fireworks display.

The 61st Independence Day celebrations highlighted the Maldives' journey as an independent nation while reaffirming its commitment to unity, sovereignty and continued progress.