The Maldives and Sri Lanka share a close relationship, shaped by their geography and cultural ties. Sri Lanka, in particular, plays an important role in providing services to Maldivians, especially in education and healthcare.
Formal diplomatic relations between the two countries were established on 26 July 1965.
As part of this ongoing partnership, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake paid an official visit to the Maldives in July last year. During the visit, both sides discussed ways to strengthen cooperation across a range of areas, including capacity building, education, climate change, fisheries, agriculture, food security, maritime safety, and air connectivity.
Several agreements were signed, including ones aimed at improving legal cooperation and supporting human resource development in the foreign sector. President Dissanayake also met with government ministers and highlighted investment opportunities in Sri Lanka for Maldivian businesses, particularly in fisheries, urban development, and ICT. He encouraged Maldivian investors to explore these sectors.
During a joint press conference, he reiterated that Sri Lanka offers favourable conditions for Maldivian investment.
When Sri Lanka was hit by floods in December last year, the Maldives was among the first to respond, providing significant assistance. According to official Sri Lankan media, the Maldives was one of the largest contributors of aid. Maldivians raised USD 2.4 million to support those affected, while the government donated USD 50,000 along with 25,000 cases of canned fish.
This support was warmly received by both the Sri Lankan government and its people.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Sri Lanka date back to 1965, making this year the 61st anniversary of that partnership.
Sri Lanka also holds a special place in Maldivian history. When the Maldives gained independence from British protection on 26 July 1965, the agreement was signed in Sri Lanka.
Today, Sri Lanka remains home to a large number of Maldivians and continues to be a key destination for higher education and medical treatment. It is one of the main providers of healthcare services to Maldivians under the Aasandha scheme and plays an important role in developing human resources across various fields. The two countries also work closely in defence.
Economically, Sri Lanka is an important partner. A significant share of food items and construction materials used in the Maldives is imported from there.
To make travel easier, a 90-day on-arrival visa for Maldivians was introduced in July last year.
Travel by Maldivians to Sri Lanka for healthcare, education, business, and tourism also contributes positively to the Sri Lankan economy.
Overall, the relationship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka is long-standing, built on mutual respect and a strong sense of friendship between their peoples.