Monday May 04, 2026
Monday May 04, 2026
Monday, 4 May 2026 07:29 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
At the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday, commencing a two-day State visit aimed at deepening bilateral relations between the two neighbouring island nations.
Dr. Muizzu and his delegation were received on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. Also present at the airport were Science and Technology Minister Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena, Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Deputy Minister Arun Hemachandra, Maldivian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Masood Imad, and senior officials from the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
A ceremonial guard of honour was accorded to the visiting Head of State by the Sri Lanka Air Force, while children representing Sri Lanka’s diverse communities welcomed the Maldivian President along the ceremonial route carrying the national flags of both countries.
Coinciding with the 61st anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, President Dr. Muizzu also signed the commemorative guest book at the airport’s VIP terminal. This marks his first official visit to Sri Lanka since assuming office in 2023.
The formal State welcome ceremony is scheduled to take place today (4) at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of President Dissanayake. During the visit, the two leaders are expected to hold bilateral discussions focused on strengthening longstanding ties and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are also expected to be signed in sectors including defence, education, healthcare, tourism, and youth development, reflecting both countries’ commitment to enhancing strategic cooperation.
Dr. Muizzu and his delegation are also scheduled to participate in a special business forum in Colombo, aimed at exploring new economic and investment opportunities between the two nations.
The Maldivian President is accompanied by First Lady Sajida Mohamed, the Maldivian Foreign Minister, senior Cabinet Ministers, and high-ranking Government officials.
