Sri Lanka and Maldives Strengthen Bilateral Ties Through High-Level Talks
Colombo, February 19, 2025 (LankaXpress) – Sri Lanka and the Maldives have reaffirmed their strong diplomatic and economic ties following high-level bilateral discussions between Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel in Colombo. The talks covered a wide range of topics, including economic cooperation, tourism, employment opportunities, environmental sustainability, and regional security.
During Minister Khaleel’s maiden visit to Sri Lanka after assuming office, he led a high-level Maldivian delegation, including the Foreign Secretary. His visit underscores the deep-rooted relationship between the two island nations, which share centuries-old socio-cultural and economic ties.
Strengthening Economic and Investment Partnerships
A key highlight of the discussions was Sri Lanka’s commitment to bolstering economic relations with the Maldives, particularly in light of Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery. Minister Herath invited Maldivian investors to explore joint ventures in sectors such as tourism, banking, and construction—industries where Sri Lankan companies have already established a significant presence in the Maldives.
Recognizing the valuable contributions of Sri Lankan professionals in the Maldivian workforce, the two ministers explored ways to expand employment opportunities for Sri Lankans in Maldives. Minister Herath also proposed facilitating cross-border transactions in Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) and Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) to benefit Sri Lankan migrant workers.
Enhancing Tourism and Connectivity
As tourism remains a key economic driver for both nations, discussions focused on increasing collaboration to attract more visitors. With Sri Lanka targeting three million tourist arrivals in 2025, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in tourism and leisure investments. Additionally, enhancing air connectivity between the two countries was emphasized as a critical step in facilitating greater movement of travelers and business exchanges.
Collaboration in Fisheries, Environment, and Renewable Energy
Given their shared Indian Ocean geography, Sri Lanka and the Maldives discussed deepening cooperation in the fisheries sector, including facilitating transit passage for Sri Lankan fishing vessels. Both nations also reaffirmed their commitment to environmental protection, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development, including advancing blue economy strategies and renewable energy initiatives.
Education, Youth Empowerment, and Defense Cooperation
Sri Lanka has long supported Maldivian students and professionals, and both sides agreed to expand collaboration in education and skill development. The ministers also explored further cooperation in youth empowerment, sports, and entrepreneurship. Additionally, Sri Lanka reiterated its commitment to assisting the Maldives in enhancing its defense capabilities by continuing to train Maldivian National Defence Force personnel.
Regional and Multilateral Cooperation
As the current chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Sri Lanka acknowledged Maldives’ support in fostering regional peace, stability, and development. The ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation at multilateral forums and continuing to support each other in international organizations.
Minister Herath concluded the discussions by expressing Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to further consolidating bilateral relations with the Maldives in the years ahead. The visit is expected to pave the way for concrete action-oriented initiatives that will benefit both nations.
The official visit also included a meeting with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya later in the evening, further solidifying the diplomatic engagements between the two countries.
