Dissanayake departs after first Maldives visit

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake concluded his official visit to the Maldives with a state farewell ceremony at Velana International Airport (VIA) on Wednesday evening, departing for Sri Lanka. 

Arriving on Monday at the invitation of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, President Dissanayake was escorted by Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel and Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam, who joined him for the ceremonial send-off. 

During his three-day visit, Dissanayake met with government officials and discussed a number of issues. He met with Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullah Khaleel, Finance Minister Moosa Zameer, Defense Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusaan, and Parliament’s Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim. President Dissanayake also convened with several senior police, army, and immigration officials.

In addition, two agreements were signed between the two countries during the visit.

Maldives established diplomatic relations with Sri Lanka on July 26, 1965, thereby commemorating the 60th anniversary of the bilateral relationship this year.

This visit marks President Dissanayake's inaugural trip to Maldives since assuming office in September 2024.