In celebration of six decades of diplomatic relations between two close Indian Ocean neighbours, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to strengthening cooperation with Sri Lanka during a state banquet held on Monday in honour of visiting Sri Lankan President His Excellency Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The banquet was held as part of the official state visit by President Dissanayake, marking his first visit to the Maldives since assuming office in September 2024.
Addressing the distinguished gathering, President Dr Muizzu emphasized that the relationship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka is not simply one of geographic proximity, but a deeply rooted bond built on shared history, cultural affinity, and mutual respect. “The Maldives and Sri Lanka are more than just neighbours,” he noted. “Ours is a relationship defined by trust, mutual respect, and enduring friendship.”
The President described the hospitality and generosity of the Sri Lankan people as qualities that have long resonated with Maldivians, further strengthening the people-to-people ties that form the bedrock of the two nations’ relationship. He acknowledged the contributions of Sri Lanka to various sectors in the Maldives, including education, health, and infrastructure, and expressed gratitude for the strong partnership maintained over the decades.
President Dr Muizzu underscored the evolution of Maldives–Sri Lanka bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic and social domains. He noted that this collaboration now extends into strategic sectors such as tourism development, digital technology, maritime security, and cultural exchange, reflecting the dynamic nature of the partnership and a shared ambition to remain responsive in a rapidly changing world.
Reflecting on earlier official discussions between the two leaders and their respective delegations, President Muizzu described the talks as “meaningful and productive,” yielding a renewed sense of purpose and direction for future collaboration. He conveyed optimism about expanding cooperation in areas such as sustainable development, inclusive prosperity, and regional peace, stating: “I am confident that, together, we can unlock untapped potential and expand opportunities for our peoples.”
The President concluded his remarks with a forward-looking vision for the Maldives–Sri Lanka relationship: “Let us seize this momentum to work more closely in building inclusive prosperity, sustainable development, and regional stability. I reaffirm my Government’s commitment to working side by side with Sri Lanka in pursuit of our shared aspirations, to uplift lives, to strengthen peace and progress, and to foster a future built on solidarity and shared vision.”
The state banquet was attended by senior Maldivian officials, Sri Lankan ministers, members of the visiting delegation, and diplomats. The occasion served not only as a symbol of diplomatic courtesy but also as a platform for reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two countries.
This year’s celebration of the 60th anniversary of Maldives–Sri Lanka diplomatic ties, formally established on 26 July 1965, highlights a relationship that continues to thrive and adapt to modern challenges. For international tourists and observers, the warmth of this alliance demonstrates the Maldives’ strong regional standing and its dedication to promoting harmony and cooperation in the Indian Ocean, a destination where peace, hospitality, and international engagement are as enduring as its natural beauty.
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