President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who left the island this morning (28), on a three-day state visit to the Maldives, landed at the Velana International Airport in Male, a short while ago.

On his arrival, President Dissanayake and the Sri Lankan delegation were received by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, the President’s Media Division stated.

The President was then accorded a Guard of Honour by the Maldives National Defence Force.

An official welcome ceremony is scheduled to take place later today.

During the visit, President Dissanayake is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with President Muizzu and witness the exchange of several Memoranda of Understanding aimed at deepening mutual cooperation.

The two leaders are also expected to hold discussions aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties between Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

They are also due to deliver joint press statements outlining the outcomes of their discussions.

During his stay, the President will address a business forum and meet with members of the Sri Lankan expatriate community.

This marks President Dissanayake’s first state visit to Maldives since taking office in September 2024.

The state visit is also significant as Sri Lanka and the Maldives commemorate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations this year.

Sri Lanka and the Maldives established diplomatic relations on July 26, 1965.

President Dissanayake is being accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath, along with senior government officials.