Maldives and Sri Lanka committed to combat the menace of terrorism and to collectively battle threats posed by narcotics and other psychotropic substances in light of global challenges being faced by both countries, reaffirms Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

The reaffirmation was made as part of the joint comminiqué between both countries during President Solih’s state visit to Sri Lanka where he held official talks with the Sri Lankan President.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two leaders had agreed to exert efforts to strengthen trade, economic and cultural ties between Sri Lanka and Maldives. They further expressed commitment to work closely in promoting regional stability and peace.

Presidents Solih and Sirisena discussed on enhancing cooperation in political, economic, tourism, youth development, health, education and capacity building for mutually beneficial strategic partnerships.

The leaders also agreed to hold the fourth meeting of the joint commission between both countries, in Colombo during the first half of 2019.

Presidents Solih and Sirisena also expressed commitment to work together in reviewing the current visa regime to accommodate concerns of Maldivians who need student, parental and guardian visas as well as Sri Lankan business visas.

Both Presidents emphasized on the importance of continuing the dialogue for cooperation, especially in the field of health and education, as well as “expert’s exchange programmes”.

Stressing on the threats posed by climate change to both countries, the leaders agreed to work together to enhance cooperation in addressing the issue, especially having underscored on the importance of the implementation of the “Paris Agreement”.

In addition, a business forum was also held in collaboration with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. During the forum leading businessmen discussed avenues for enhanced engagement.

Having thanked the Sri Lankan President for the hospitality, President Solih extended an invitation of a state visit to the Maldives which President Sirisena graciously accepted.