High Commissioner H.E. Masood Imad, attended the 15th Jaffna International Trade Fair (JITF), held from January 24th to 26th at the Muttraweli grounds in the Northern Peninsula. During his visit, High Commissioner Masood engaged with exhibitors, toured various stalls, and gained valuable insights into the diverse range of products and services on display.

The JITF, an annual event that has been a key platform in the region for the past 14 years, attracted over 300 exhibitors representing sectors such as sustainable energy, agriculture, construction, healthcare, tourism, and information technology. This year’s edition further emphasized the fair’s role in supporting startups, established businesses, and regional tourism initiatives aimed at attracting international visitors.

Organized by Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services (LECS), the event underscored the Northern Province’s economic potential, providing opportunities for businesses to showcase innovative solutions in industries including food and beverage, packaging, and hospitality. LECS’s efforts to foster economic development were commended by both industry leaders and government officials.

The Jaffna International Trade Fair continues to serve as a vital catalyst for business development and regional collaboration, further integrating the Northern region into Sri Lanka’s national economic framework.

High Commissioner H.E. Masood Imad, paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic, and Ocean Resources of Sri Lanka.

During the meeting, both dignitaries engaged in fruitful discussions aimed at enhancing Maldives-Sri Lanka cooperation in the fisheries sector. The discussion focused on key areas including industry growth, capacity building, and promoting sustainable fishing practices to benefit both nations.

Both High Commissioner and Minister emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges in the fisheries industry, and commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with the Maldives in this vital sector.

This visit emphasizes the strong partnership between the Maldives and Sri Lanka and the shared commitment to fostering sustainable economic development in the region.

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.