President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has conveyed greetings on the 75th Independence Day of neighboring Sri Lanka.

In a Tweet posted on Saturday, President Solih extended his greetings to the President, government and people of Sri Lanka on the occasion of their 75th Independence Day.

Describing Sri Lankans as the cousins of Maldivians, President Solih assured that the government of Maldives will long continue to cherish the fraternal ties of friendship enjoyed with Sri Lanka.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid also extended greetings of the day to his Sri Lankan counterpart, the government and people on the joyous occasion.

In his message, FM Shahid expressed confidence that the close bilateral ties between the people and governments Maldives and Sri Lanka will continue to strengthen in the future.

FM Shahid is currently in the neighboring country and attended the official celebrations held on the auspicious occasion of its 75th anniversary of independence.

Expressing commitment to enhance the close bilateral cooperation between the Maldives and Sri Lanka and in upholding the deep ties of friendship that have always existed between our countries, FM Shahid stated that he is confident that the ties will continue to solidify in the years to come.

Sri Lanka celebrates Independence Day on February 4 every year, after the country gained independence from British rule in 1948 and gained political independence.

The Maldives and Sri Lanka have always enjoyed close ties, with President Solih also having attended the country's Independence Day celebrations in 2019.

It marked the first time a Maldivian president honored the Independence Day celebrations of neighboring Sri Lanka.

It also marked President Solih's second State Visit abroad since assuming office in November 2018.