His Excellency Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, received an official state welcome in Malé on Monday, marking the beginning of his first visit to the Maldives since assuming office in September 2024. The visit takes place during a milestone year for both countries, as they commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations, a partnership that began on 26 July 1965.
The official welcoming ceremony was held at Republic Square in Malé City, following President Dissanayake’s arrival earlier in the day at Velana International Airport. He was personally received at the airport by His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, accompanied by senior members of his ministerial cabinet. From the airport, President Dissanayake proceeded to the Izzuddin Jetty, where the day’s formalities continued.
At Republic Square, the two heads of state stood side by side as Maldivian schoolchildren presented a traditional cultural performance, celebrating the shared South Asian heritage of the two nations. The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) then delivered a ceremonial 21-gun salute, after which the national anthems of both Sri Lanka and the Maldives were played. President Dissanayake inspected a Guard of Honour before meeting with dignitaries from both delegations.
This elaborate reception reflects the importance of President Dissanayake’s visit, which aims to further strengthen diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation between the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Formal bilateral talks between the two Presidents are scheduled to take place during the visit. Discussions are expected to cover a wide range of shared priorities, including tourism, maritime cooperation, education, trade, and regional security.
The visit also includes a joint press statement by the two leaders, where they will outline the outcomes of the official talks and highlight new avenues for cooperation. It is anticipated that several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed during the visit, aimed at enhancing bilateral engagement across multiple sectors of strategic interest.
Over the past six decades, Maldives–Sri Lanka relations have grown into a dynamic partnership grounded in mutual respect, historical ties, and regional collaboration. Both nations continue to work together under regional frameworks such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), and enjoy strong people-to-people connections, facilitated by frequent travel, shared cultural values, and educational exchange.
President Dissanayake’s visit not only reaffirms Sri Lanka’s commitment to deepening its regional partnerships but also strengthens Maldives’ position as a regional partner invested in stability, cooperation, and sustainable development.
For international visitors, this high-level exchange underscores the Maldives’ active role in regional diplomacy while highlighting its commitment to fostering strong, peaceful, and productive relations with its neighbours, a factor that contributes to the nation’s reputation as a secure, welcoming, and globally connected destination.
advertisment
advertisment
