Sri Lankan President to Visit Maldives in July for Landmark Bilateral Talks

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is set to undertake a three-day official visit to the Maldives in the final week of July, according to Sri Lankan media reports.

The Sunday Times confirmed that this would mark President Dissanayake’s sixth overseas visit since taking office in September 2024. His trip will coincide with two significant dates: the anniversary of Maldives–Sri Lanka diplomatic relations on 29 July, which comes after the Maldives celebrates its Independence Day on July 26.

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Citing sources from Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Sunday Times reported that the visit will focus on strengthening bilateral trade, enhancing regional cooperation, and deepening economic ties between the two nations.

High-level discussions are reportedly in advanced stages regarding the establishment of a Maldives–Sri Lanka Free Economic and Free Movement Zone. If realised, this pioneering initiative could mirror the European Economic Area—allowing citizens of both countries to live, work, study, set up businesses, and own property in either nation without the need for visas or work permits.

The visit will also address cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, digital infrastructure, tourism promotion, and climate change adaptation, highlighting a shared commitment to sustainable and inclusive regional development.

Earlier this month, Indian media reported that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may visit the Maldives next month, potentially coinciding with the country’s Independence Day celebrations.