President uses Maldives to appeal South Asian leaders to unite in eradicating drug menace

President Maithripala Sirisena has appealed to all South Asian leaders to work in unison to eradicate the drug menace which is a threat to the entire South Asian region.

President Sirisena, who arrived in Malé on Sunday to participate in the 50th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives as the Chief Guest, stressed this during an official meeting with Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom held at the president’s office on Sunday evening.

President Sirisena said that his ambition was to initiate systematic programs to increase local food production, environmental conservation and combat drugs, during his tenure. Initial work in this regard had already commenced, he said.

During the bilateral talks, the two state leaders promised to strengthen the Maldivian-Sri Lankan relationship. Attention was also paid to strengthening the two countries’ economic and commercial relationships as well as exchanging human resources, the Department of Government Information said in a report.

Prior to that, a special discussion was held regarding promoting cooperation in the health sectors between the two countries and it was decided to implement the recommendations taken at that meeting. Further discussions were also held to promote cooperation in tourism.

President Sirisena also held talks with the Maldivian President about fulfilling his duties and responsibilities as the Commonwealth Chairman-in-Office. Both leaders agreed to enhance their relationship with the UN.

President Sirisena commended the support being given to Sri Lanka by Maldives at international forums, which the Maldivian President said Sri Lanka would continue to enjoy in the future as well.