The High Commission of Maldives in Sri Lanka has held Independence Day celebrations in Colombo on Thursday. 

Celebrations highlighted further strengthening of diplomatic and social ties between Maldives and Sri Lanka. 

The Guest of Honour for the event was Sri Lanka's Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr Nalinda Jayatissa. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Jayatissa spoke of the historic ties between Maldives and Sri Lanka, reflecting on how the Maldives' independence agreement itself had been signed in Sri Lanka. 

Maldivian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Masood Imad's remarks stressed upon the shared history of Maldives and Sri Lanka. 

He stressed that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's state visit to Sri Lanka in May had contributed towards further strengthening diplomatic ties between the nations. 

The event featured cultural performances including 'Boduberu', 'Baiypolhi' dance, 'Maafathi' dance and 'Dhan'di Jehun'. 

All the performances were brought by Maldivian residents and students in Sri Lanka. 

Several dignitaries attended the event, including ministers, province governors, deputy ministers, senior military officials and other Sri Lankan government seniors. Business leaders and foreign ambassadors also joined the event, with total attendance exceeding 500 guests. 

The High Commission recognized contributions by several businesses in making the event a success, extending gratitude to sponsors.