President Dissanayake officially welcomed in Malé at start of state visit

President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who arrived in the Maldives on an official visit this morning, was formally welcomed in Malé City today.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu received President Dissanayake at Velana International Airport with a red carpet reception. The Sri Lankan head of state was then accorded a Guard of Honour at Jumhooree Maidhaan, which included a 21-gun salute as part of the official welcome ceremony.

President Dissanayake is in the Maldives on a three-day state visit at the invitation of President Muizzu. His visit marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Sri Lanka—formally established on July 26, 1965. Sri Lanka holds the distinction of being the first country to establish diplomatic ties with the Maldives following its independence.

Official bilateral talks between the two governments are scheduled to take place today. The discussions are expected to focus on enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade, development, education, and regional stability.

This is the second official visit by a foreign head of state since President Muizzu assumed office on November 17, 2023. The first was by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited the Maldives last Friday at the invitation of President Muizzu. That visit concluded with the signing of several key bilateral agreements between India and the Maldives.

President Dissanayake will remain in the Maldives until Wednesday, according to the President’s Office. The visit includes high-level engagements, cultural programs, and a series of diplomatic events aimed at strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two Indian Ocean neighbours.