The Sri Lankan government has appealed to the Maldives to reconsider the current restrictions on foreign remittances sent by Sri Lankan migrant workers. This request was made by Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry during discussions with his Maldivian counterpart, Moosa Zameer, who recently visited Sri Lanka on an official trip.
The Maldives is home to a significant number of Sri Lankan workers, particularly in high executive roles within the hospitality sector and other industries. Many of these workers earn monthly salaries of around USD 3,000, predominantly paid in Maldivian Rufiyaa.
During a joint media briefing, Minister Sabry stated, “I also requested the Maldives side to consider revisiting the current limit imposed on outward foreign currency remittances for the benefit of Sri Lankan migrant workers in the Maldives.” This move aims to provide financial relief to Sri Lankan workers and enhance their ability to support their families back home.
It has been observed that many Sri Lankan workers in the Maldives have resorted to using informal channels, such as the Undiyal method, to send their remittances. These methods bypass the official banking network, leading to inefficiencies and potential financial risks.
The discussions between the two foreign ministers highlight the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing the financial challenges faced by migrant workers. The outcome of these talks could significantly impact the livelihoods of many Sri Lankan families dependent on remittances from the Maldives.
