Both presidents of Sri Lanka and Maldives have expressed mutual willingness to maintain and foster long-standing bilateral cooperation.
The newly elected President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has assured Maldives' President Dr Mohamed Muizzu that he would work to foster the long-standing bilateral relationship between both countries.
Anura's statement was made via X (formerly Twitter) in response to President Muizzu's congratulatory message, which was also posted on X.
President Muizzu, in the initial post, congratulated Anura and said that he is eager to work with him to further strengthen the historic friendship between Maldives and Sri Lanka. He also wished Anura success as he assumes his new role.
Thank you, President @MMuizzu for sending your good wishes. I will be glad to work with you in fostering historical ties between our two nations and also for the cooperation in the region. https://t.co/bYzWhlLajC
— Anura Kumara Dissanayake (@anuradisanayake) September 23, 2024
Reposting the message, Anura thanked President Muizzu and said that he would "be glad to work with you in fostering historical ties between our two nations and also for the cooperation in the region."
This election is the first since Sri Lanka plunged into major economic crisis. Anura, 55, secured his win on a National People's Power (NPP) coalition ticket by securing over 55.89 percent of the votes.
The strongest candidates in the presidential election came from politically influential families. However, despite previously being a less popular contender, he gained sudden popularity this time through his strong campaign rhetoric against corruption and his promises to improve welfare for the poor.
He is opposed to the major changes brought about by the country to seek International Monetary Fund (IMF)'s assistance, and has said that if he were to come on to power, he would reduce taxes and make life easier for the people.