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.

The High Commission of the Republic of Maldives in Colombo actively participated in the International Bazaar & Cultural Extravaganza 2024, a vibrant event organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Foreign Service Association (SLFSA) and the Diplomatic Corps. The event, held under the theme of sustainability, offered a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, featuring diverse cuisines, crafts, and activities. It successfully brought together diplomatic and non-diplomatic participants, celebrating the cultural richness of the various nations while raising funds for charity. The event was inaugurated by the Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, who, accompanied by several dignitaries, visited the various country stalls, including the Maldives’ stall, which was a highlight of the event.

At the Maldives stall, High Commissioner Imad welcomed Minister Herath and his delegation to an atmosphere brimming with Maldivian colors, traditional costumes, and a range of local products. The stall, managed by volunteers from the Maldives Centre, featured handicrafts, souvenirs, fish products, and fresh food, raising LKR 282, 990for charity. Additionally, the High Commission participated in the raffle draw, where a hamper of Maldivian traditional fish products was gifted to the winner. The event also included a Fashion Show, graced by Prime Minister, H.E Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, which highlighted sustainable fashion. Members of the Diplomatic Corps, including some from the Maldives Mission, modeled designs from prominent Sri Lankan designers. To add to the cultural showcase, six female students from the Maldives Centre performed a dance to the song ‘Ai Zamaaney,’ celebrating the nation’s rich cultural heritage. All proceeds from the event will support the M.H. Omar Liver Care Facility at the Colombo North Center for Liver Diseases.

In commemoration of the Maldives Republic Day, celebrated on 11th of November, the Maldives High Commission in Sri Lanka inaugurated the much-anticipated art exhibition titled “ނަލަ ދިވެހި ރާއްޖެ "Nala Dhivehi Raajje - A Visual Journey through the Maldives. This exhibition comprises a collection of paintings by popular Maldivian artist Mr. Abdullah Faiz.  

The Chief Guest at the ceremony was Ms. Deepa Liyanage, Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, National Integration, Social Security and Mass Media. Members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, private sector and art lovers were also in attendance.  

In his remarks, High Commissioner H.E. Masood Imad conveyed greeting on behalf of the High Commission and staff to HE President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and the people of Maldives. He noted that the Republic Day not only signifies a political shift that occurred on 11 November 1968, but is also a celebration of the resilience, strength, and spirit of the Maldivian people. He added that it is a day to reflect on the journey Maldives has undertaken as a nation, from early struggles to achievements, and to renew commitment to the ideals of equality, justice, and the pursuit of progress. He thanked Additional Secretary, Ms. Deepa Liyanage for gracing the occasion as the chief guest and all invitees for their presence at this auspicious occasion. Further, High Commissioner Masood commended Mr. Faiz for his immense talent and his role in ensuring such a colourful celebration of the Republic Day, as well as fostering cultural exchange between the Maldives and Sri Lanka.  

Ms. Deepa Liyanage in her speech highlighted the close relations between the Maldives and Sri Lanka – based on shared values and culture, in addition to geographical proximity. She emphasized the importance of cultural exchange to forge closer people to people connections and enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.

Recounting his experience, Abdullah Faiz said that he is mostly a self-taught artist, although his artistic journey began with a solid foundation in art in his early years. He expressed appreciation to his Sri Lankan art teacher who inspired him and laid the foundation that shaped him to become the impressionist artist he is today.   

On 12^th November, Foreign Secretary H.E. Aruni Wijewardane also visited the Exhibition. High Commissioner  H.E. Masood Imad expressed his gratitude to her for the support, acknowledging her commitment to fostering cross-cultural connections between the Maldives and Sri Lanka.   

This unique exhibition features a collection of both historical and contemporary works that depict the breathtaking landscapes of the Maldivian islands, as well as its vibrant culture and the daily lives of the Maldivian people. The display offers an insightful and artistic perspective of the Maldives, showcasing its rich heritage and natural beauty. The collection also includes select works that explore the natural beauty, diversity and culture of Sri Lanka, and the deeply intertwined relationship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

The exhibition is held at the J.D.A. Perera Gallery, University of Visual and

Performing Arts, Horton Place, Colombo 7 and is open to the public from 11th to 12th November 2024, from 9.30 to 8.30pm.