The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives, Dr Abdulla Khaleel, has successfully concluded his official visit to Sri Lanka, which took place from 18 to 21 February at the invitation of Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, Honourable M. Vijitha Herath. 

During his stay, the Minsiter engaged in high-level discussions with Sri Lankan leaders, including President Honourable Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Prime Minister Honourable Dr Harini Amarasuriya. 

He conveyed warm greetings from the President of the Maldives, Dr Mohamed Muizzu, and the Maldivian people, reaffirming the Government’s steadfast commitment to strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors. On behalf of President Dr Muizzu, he also expressed profound appreciation for Sri Lanka’s continued support of the Maldives’ development initiatives. 

In his official discussions with Minister Herath, both foreign ministers explored avenues to deepen collaboration in key sectors, including trade, investment, the environment, and fisheries. Minister Dr Khaleel also engaged with private sector representatives and investors in Sri Lanka, highlighting investment opportunities in the Maldives and fostering potential partnerships. 

As part of his visit, the Minister met with the Maldivian community residing in Sri Lanka, inquiring about their well-being and reaffirming the Government’s commitment to their welfare. He also visited the High Commission of the Maldives and the Maldives Centre in Sri Lanka, where he met with staff and emphasised the crucial role of the mission in assisting Maldivians residing in and travelling to Sri Lanka. 

Additionally, he held discussions with non-resident Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to the Maldives and based in Colombo. He outlined the Government’s strategic vision to transform the Maldives into a developed nation by 2040 and invited international partners to support this ambitious journey. 

Minister Dr Khaleel was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Foreign Secretary Fathimath Inaya, High Commissioner of the Maldives to Sri Lanka Masood Imad, and Additional Secretary Aminath Abdulla Didi.