Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake arrived in the Maldives on Monday for his first state visit since taking office, as the two Indian Ocean neighbours mark 60 years of diplomatic relations.
President Dissanayake was welcomed at Velana International Airport by President Mohamed Muizzu, with an official ceremony scheduled later in the day, according to a statement from the President’s Office.
The visit comes at the invitation of Muizzu and is expected to centre on deepening bilateral cooperation.
“President Dissanayake and his delegation were received upon arrival at Velana International Airport by President Dr Muizzu,” the statement said. “An official welcome ceremony in his honour is scheduled to be held later today.”
The two leaders will hold official talks focused on “further strengthening bilateral relations between the two neighbouring nations,” and are due to deliver joint press statements following their discussions.
Dissanayake assumed office in September 2024. His visit highlights growing efforts by both countries to reaffirm historical ties at a time of shifting regional dynamics.
The Maldives and Sri Lanka established diplomatic relations on 26 July 1965.