High Commissioner H.E. Masood Imad paid a courtesy call on Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism. The meeting was attended by Deputy High Commissioner Ms. Fathimath Ghina and Mr. Niluka Kadurugamuwa, Director General of the South Asia Division at Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The discussions emphasized the longstanding and strong relationship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka, rooted in shared cultural ties, mutual respect, and common values. High Commissioner Masood acknowledged Sri Lanka’s critical role as a key development partner, particularly in the education, economy, and defense sectors. Minister Herath reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to further enhancing bilateral cooperation.
Both parties agreed to strengthen people-to-people connections through increased tourism, trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. They also reviewed plans for high-level visits, including the proposed State Visit of President H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and the Official Visit of Foreign Minister H.E. Dr. Abdulla Khaleel. Minister Herath suggested potential dates for these visits.
The Fifth Session of the Joint Commission, scheduled for 2025 in the Maldives, was also discussed. High Commissioner Masood raised concerns about challenges faced by Maldivians in obtaining student, medical, and resident visas for Sri Lanka, which have led to a decline in the Maldivian community residing in the country. Minister Herath assured that he would engage with the relevant authorities to explore solutions aimed at expediting visa processes.
Both parties reiterated their commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of both nations.
