May 04 (Citizen news) - At the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday afternoon (03), commencing a two-day state visit.
The Maldivian President and his delegation were warmly received upon their arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.
Science and Technology Minister Professor Chrishantha Abeysena, Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Deputy Minister Arun Hemachandra, Maldives High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Masood Imad and a number of senior officials from the Foreign Affairs Ministry were also present.
A special guard of honour was accorded to President Muizzu by the Sri Lanka Air Force. Children representing all communities, holding the national flags of both countries, lined the route to extend a warm welcome to the visiting Head of State. Marking this visit, which coincides with the 61st anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, President Muizzu also signed the commemorative guest book at the airport’s VIP terminal.
This is President Muizzu’s first visit to Sri Lanka since assuming office in 2023.
The official welcome ceremony for President Muizzu will be held today (4) at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
During the visit, President Muizzu is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with President Dissanayake aimed at further strengthening the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
Several Memoranda of Understanding are also expected to be signed, reflecting the shared commitment of both countries to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
In addition, President Muizzu and his delegation will participate in a special business forum in Colombo.
President Muizzu is accompanied by First Lady Sajida Mohamed, the Maldivian Minister of Foreign Affairs, and several senior Cabinet ministers and high-ranking officials.
