President Anura Kumara Disanayaka of Sri Lanka received a ceremonial welcome in the Maldives on Monday during his first state visit to the country since assuming office in September 2024.

This year, the Maldives and Sri Lanka commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations, which were established on 26 July 1965.

The official welcome ceremony was held at Republic Square, where President Dr Mohamed Muizzu formally received the visiting President. The programme began with a cultural performance by students and continued with a ceremonial 21-gun salute presented by the Maldives National Defence Force.

Following the salute, the national anthems of both nations were played before President Disanayaka inspected the Guard of Honour. The ceremony concluded with the introduction of dignitaries from the Maldivian and Sri Lankan delegations.