President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of Sri Lanka arrived in the Maldives on Monday, undertaking his first official visit since assuming office last year. The visit, extended at the invitation of Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, signals a renewed commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation between the two island nations.
Shortly after landing, President Dissanayake shared a message on social media outlining the purpose of his trip and expressing his intent to engage in “meaningful discussions” with President Muizzu and other senior Maldivian officials. “Just landed in the Maldives! Ready to engage in meaningful discussions with President @MMuizzu [Muizzu] and other leaders to strengthen our collaboration,” he wrote. “We will also sign several MoUs that will enhance cooperation between Sri Lanka and the Maldives!”
The visit takes place against the backdrop of a diplomatic milestone: the 60th anniversary of formal relations between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, established on 26 July 1965. Talks between the two sides are expected to result in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding. According to government sources, these agreements aim to deepen collaboration across a range of sectors.