Maldives’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, has concluded his official visit to Sri Lanka, aimed at strengthening bilateral, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations. The visit was undertaken at the invitation of Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Vijitha Herath.
During his trip, Minister Khaleel held official talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart, where discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in key sectors such as trade, investment, environment, and fisheries. He also paid courtesy calls on Sri Lanka’s President, Hon. Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, and Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. In these meetings, Minister Khaleel extended congratulations on the successful presidential and parliamentary elections and commended Sri Lanka’s economic recovery efforts.
Minister Khaleel reiterated the Maldives’ appreciation for Sri Lanka’s longstanding support, particularly in education, human resource development, and in hosting a large Maldivian community. The Sri Lankan leadership reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the close ties between the two countries.
Beyond diplomatic engagements, Minister Khaleel met with the Maldivian community residing in Sri Lanka, inquiring about their well-being. He also visited the Maldives High Commission and the Maldives Centre in Colombo, where he emphasised the mission’s role in supporting Maldivians living and travelling in Sri Lanka.
In addition, Minister Khaleel engaged with Sri Lanka’s business community and investors, highlighting investment opportunities in the Maldives. He also met with non-resident ambassadors and high commissioners accredited to the Maldives and shared the government’s vision for development, inviting them to contribute to the country’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2040.
Minister Khaleel was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Fathimath Inaya, High Commissioner Masood Imad, Additional Secretary Aminath Abdulla Didi, Deputy High Commissioner Fathimath Ghina, and Second Secretary Aminath Warudha.
