President Maithripala Sirisena thanked the government and the people of Maldives for the assistance provided for flood relief work, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said.

Speaking with the Maldivian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohamed Asim, who called on him at the President’s official residence in Colombo today (02), the President said Sri Lanka receives generous support from the international community during this time of calamity because of the government’s policy of maintaining good relations with all the nations.

Foreign Minister Dr. Mohamed Asim in his capacity as the Special Envoy of the President of Maldives has conveyed condolences from the Government and the people of Maldives to Sri Lanka, following the flooding and landslides that occurred due to torrential rains, resulting in the loss of several innocent lives, damages to infrastructure, and a significant disruption of the lifestyles of hundreds of people; and informed that the Maldives stands with Sri Lanka during this difficult time.

Dr. Asim also briefed President Maithripala Sirisena on the current political developments in the Maldives during his meeting with the President.

Furthermore, President Sirisena pointed out that a small group of unscrupulous elements travels between the two countries and indulges in nefarious activities, and emphasized the need for joint action to curb such activities.

The Foreign Minister assured the President that his country would extend fullest cooperation to immigration and law and order authorities in Sri Lanka in this regard.

Foreign Secretary Esala Weerakoon and High Commissioner of Maldives Zahiya Zareer were also present on this occasion.