Maldives President notes importance of relationship with Sri Lanka

Saturday, 5 January 2019 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih held discussions with the Sri Lankan Ambassador to the Maldives Major General (Retd.) B. R. W. M. R. A. B. Thoradeniya on ways to further strengthen ties between the Maldives and Sri Lanka, the Maldives President’s Office said.

The discussions were held during a courtesy call paid on President Solih by the Sri Lankan Ambassador.

Speaking at the meeting held at the President’s Office, President Solih stated that Sri Lanka remains one of the Maldives’ strongest friends and development partners.

The President expressed his sincere appreciation for the warm relations that have marked the relationship between the two countries since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties 54 years ago.

The President also expressed his appreciation for the manifold contributions made to the Maldives by Sri Lankan nationals, as well as for the hospitality accorded by Sri Lanka to the over ten thousand Maldivians who reside in Sri Lanka for educational or medical purposes.

Ambassador Thoradeniya noted that many Sri Lankans are eager to work in the Maldives due to the country’s attractive professional environment, which is reflected by the large Sri Lankan expatriate community. Highlighting President Solih’s election victory, the Ambassador noted that President Solih’s success represented a triumph of the people’s will. (Colombo Gazette)