High Commission for Sri Lanka in SA- Statement to the media by H.E. the President of Sri Lanka during the State Visit to Maldives, 28 July 2025

: Created: 31 July 2025

It is indeed a pleasure to be in Malé on my first State Visit, which symbolizes the close bilateral ties and existing cordial partnership between Sri Lanka and Maldives. This visit infused renewed dynamism and energy to that relationship.

My visit to Maldives at this juncture is also significant as Sri Lanka and Maldives commemorate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations, this year.

I extend my sincere appreciation to His Excellency President Mohamed Muizzu for the invitation, and the warm welcome and hospitality extended to me and my delegation.

Friends from the media,
Sri Lanka and Maldives have enjoyed longstanding relations dating back to centuries. Our two countries, being Indian Ocean littoral states, have been enriched by our association with the ancient maritime trade routes and shared histories.

Just a while ago, President Muizzu and I along with our respective delegations concluded our bilateral deliberations. We carried out a comprehensive review of the present status of our relations and exchanged views on the ways and means to further strengthen our cooperation in areas of mutual interest in the future.

I thanked President Muizzu and the Government of Maldives for the steadfast support extended to Sri Lanka at all times.

President Muizzu and I acknowledged the importance of further strengthening our cooperation and diversifying our relationship for the mutual benefit of our peoples.