President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is set to hold discussions on resolving visa-related challenges faced by Maldivians travelling to Sri Lanka during his upcoming official visit.

The Chief Government Spokesperson, Mohamed Hussain Shareef stated on Thursday that the President will undertake the visit next Sunday at the invitation of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The issue of visa difficulties for Maldivian travellers is expected to be a key item on the agenda.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the “Press with the Spokesperson” programme, Shareef noted that obtaining Sri Lankan visas has become increasingly difficult for Maldivians in recent years. He added that efforts are already underway to address the matter, and that the upcoming visit will include further high-level discussions aimed at finding a resolution.

Shareef highlighted that the issue had also been raised during earlier engagements between the two leaders, with both sides expressing interest in identifying practical and mutually beneficial solutions. Diplomatic missions, including the Maldives High Commission, are also involved in ongoing efforts.

The visa challenges stem in part from heightened security measures introduced by Sri Lanka following the 2019 Sri Lanka Easter bombings, after which the Maldives was included on a list of countries subject to additional scrutiny. Although the Maldives was officially removed from this list in July last year, difficulties in visa processing have persisted.

In August last year, Sri Lanka introduced a policy allowing certain categories of Maldivians residing in the country, including those married to Sri Lankan nationals, to obtain one-year medical visas. However, broader visa access issues for travellers remain unresolved.