Independence Day
July 26, Saturday
In accordance with the broader British policy of decolonization, an agreement was formalized on 26 July 1965 on Ceylon. Acting on behalf of His Majesty the King, Ibrahim Nasir Rannabandeyri Kilegefan, the Prime Minister of the Maldive Islands, and representing Queen Elizabeth II, Sir Michael Walker, British Ambassador designate to the Maldive Islands, signed the agreement. This marked the conclusion of British responsibility for the defense and external affairs of the Maldives. With this agreement, the islands attained complete political independence. The ceremony took place at the British High Commissioner's Residence in Colombo.