Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon has stated that activities that promote societal harmony is vital in resolving many of the global issues.
She made the statement speaking in the closing ceremony of the activities held in Male’ to mark the International Yoga Day. The ceremony was held in Artificial Beach last night.
Minister Dunya stated that Maldives was one of the first nations which supported the proposal submitted to UN to mark such a day annually on June 21st. She also stated that Maldives supported the proposal as yoga was a vital aspect.
Dunya said that yoga was not only physically beneficial but also contributed towards better mental health.
She added that it was mere coincidence that this year’s Yoga Day came in Ramadan. Dunya said that Ramadan was a time of reflection for many Muslims across the globe on the state of the world and those less fortunate. Additionally, she said that fasting is an activity that also boosts mental health, encourage better behavior and revitalization of the physical self. Dunya said that fasting is an activity that fosters brotherhood and unity within a community.
She added that the principles behind yoga were similar and that this can be used to develop societal bonds as well.
Minister Dunya noted the exemplary work carried out by the Indian High Commission and the Indian Cultural Center in creating an environment for yoga and thanked the Indian High Commissioner Rajiv Shahare for that. She also voiced thanks for the practitioners of yoga in the Maldives.