President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of Sri Lanka, before concluding his official state visit to the Maldives, delivered a compelling address at the Sri Lanka–Maldives Business Council meeting held on Wednesday in Malé. The meeting brought together government officials, ministers, and prominent business leaders from both countries to explore new avenues for investment and regional economic cooperation.
In his remarks, President Dissanayake emphasized the immense untapped potential of the Indian Ocean economy, encouraging both Sri Lankan and Maldivian businesses to work together in harnessing its vast natural resources. “Our maritime area is rich in natural resources. So we can work together, especially in food sectors like fish products and aquaculture,” he said. He also stressed that sustainable marine partnerships would offer long-term gains and drive regional progress.
Citing recent policy reforms in Sri Lanka, President Dissanayake explained that strategic fiscal adjustments and economic stabilization efforts have laid the groundwork for a more predictable and investor-friendly climate. “We have initiated substantial policy shifts to guide Sri Lanka out of its economic crisis, ensuring political stability and creating an environment conducive to foreign investment,” he added.
President Dissanayake further highlighted specific investment sectors that present high growth potential for Maldivian investors, including tourism, fisheries, real estate development, and information and communication technology (ICT). He also announced plans to introduce new legislation that offers stronger legal protections for foreign investors, complementing Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to attract regional and global capital.
Minister of Economic Development and Trade of the Maldives, Mohamed Saeed, welcomed the initiatives outlined by the Sri Lankan President and praised the strong economic ties between the two nations. He revealed that annual trade between Maldives and Sri Lanka currently stands at USD 162 million, a figure that reflects not only a healthy commercial relationship but also the deep-rooted partnership shared between the two nations.
“I welcome the efforts of Maldivian and Sri Lankan businesses to find innovative ways to develop their business portfolios,” Minister Saeed said. “This will bring mutual prosperity and promote economic development across the entire South Asian region.”
During the meeting, Maldivian business representatives raised questions and concerns regarding the evolving business climate in Sri Lanka, to which President Dissanayake responded candidly, assuring them of Sri Lanka’s dedication to creating a safe and transparent environment for cross-border commerce.
Also in attendance were Maldivian Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam, senior officials from the visiting Sri Lankan delegation, and leading figures from the Maldivian private sector.
President Dissanayake’s participation in the Sri Lanka–Maldives Business Council meeting served as a vital component of his three-day state visit, which also included bilateral talks with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the signing of key cooperation agreements, and ceremonial engagements marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Sri Lanka.
For international audiences and foreign investors, the meeting reflected both nations’ shared commitment to economic resilience, maritime cooperation, and sustainable development. The Maldives’ continued role as a regional hub for business diplomacy complements its appeal as a globally recognized tourism destination, offering a peaceful and investor-friendly atmosphere at the heart of the Indian Ocean.
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