Maldives and Sri Lanka discuss boosting cooperation in tourism and trade

Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Sri Lankan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, MP Vijitha Herath engaged in discussions on Monday, regarding boosting cooperation in tourism and trade between the two countries.

President Muizzu, who is on a state visit to Sri Lanka, was paid a courtesy call on Monday morning by Minister Herath.

The President’s Office states that during the call, President Muizzu and Minister Herath reflected on the six decades of formal diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Sri Lanka, which they agreed was founded on shared values, mutual respect and friendship between their peoples.

According to the President’s Office, they reaffirmed commitment to continue engagement in pursuing avenues of cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.

The President’s Office said that the discussions also focused on strengthening relations in key development areas and enhancing collaboration in sectors such as environmental conservation, tourism and trade.

President Muizzu is currently in Colombo on a state visit at the invitation of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who had visited the Maldives last year.

He is accompanied by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and a delegation comprising cabinet ministers and senior government officials.

They are set to conclude the visit on Wednesday.

Maldives and Sri Lanka established formal diplomatic ties on July 26, 1965. The two countries are celebrating the 61st anniversary of relations this year.