Foreign Minister Meets Sri Lankan President to Boost Bilateral Ties

Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer met with President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Wednesday as part of his official visit to Sri Lanka to discuss strengthening bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries.

https://x.com/MoFAmv/status/1798327430253629555

advertisement

Zameer met with his Sri Lankan counterpart, Ali Sabry, to discuss issues related to illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing activities within their respective Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and beyond. 

At a press conference following the meeting, Zameer emphasised the importance of stringent measures against illegal fishing, highlighting both nations’ heavy dependence on fisheries. He also offered to share Maldivian sustainable pole and line fishing expertise with Sri Lankan fishermen.

https://x.com/MoFAmv/status/1798327903165595950

The two ministers engaged in comprehensive talks covering various mutual interests, including economic and trade cooperation, education, tourism, employment, legal and law enforcement, and regional and multilateral cooperation. They discussed several specific points:

• Visa Agreements: Reaffirmation of the terms of the Maldives-Sri Lanka bilateral agreement allowing short-term visit visas of up to 90 days for nationals of both countries, and providing concessional terms for resident student visas.
• Trade and Investment: Conclusion of agreements on the avoidance of double taxation and the promotion and protection of investments to facilitate trade and reduce burdens and risks.
• Training Opportunities: Enhanced training opportunities for officers from both countries.
• Regional and Multilateral Cooperation: Efforts to address issues such as terrorism, violent extremism, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and human rights protection.
• Sustainable Development: Commitment to sustainable development, peace, and prosperity in South Asia through SAARC and other platforms like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).
• Climate Change: Collaborative efforts on mitigation and adaptation to combat climate change.

https://x.com/MoFAmv/status/1798396201437733279

In addition to these discussions, the ministers reaffirmed their governments’ stance on the situation in Gaza. Minister Zameer expressed the Maldives government’s hope for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and for humanitarian aid to reach the people of Gaza.

Minister Zameer’s visit to Sri Lanka began on Monday and will conclude today. The visit aims to enhance bilateral cooperation across multiple areas of mutual interest.