Seven MoUs Signed as Maldives and Sri Lanka Expand Cooperation

Seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed between the Maldives and Sri Lanka aimed at strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s State Visit.

The agreements cover the renewal of cooperation in tourism, arrangements on archiving cooperation, and the training and professional development of teachers and school leaders. Both sides also agreed to renew cooperation on sports and youth development, alongside a memorandum covering broader defence cooperation.

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In addition, the two countries signed a renewed agreement on defence education, training and research cooperation, as well as an agreement on academic cooperation.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said the agreements will ensure tangible results and benefits for the people of both countries.

In a media statement delivered after Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka presented his remarks, Muizzu said the visit marked both a reaffirmation of close neighbourly ties and the beginning of a renewed, forward-looking partnership between the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

He said the two leaders held productive discussions covering bilateral, regional and global issues, and agreed to elevate cooperation across sectors including trade and investment, health, defence and security, education, youth and sports development, fisheries and the environment, and social development.

“Our focus now is clear, delivery, and implementation, ensuring that these agreements translate into tangible benefits for our people,” he said.

Economic cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, with focus placed on trade and investment links, support for Maldivian fisheries products, and the potential establishment of a Bank of Maldives presence in Sri Lanka. He also highlighted the need to address trade imbalances and strengthen marine sustainability and climate resilience.

He expressed appreciation for the contribution of Sri Lankans to the development of the Maldives, as well as the presence of the Maldivian community in Sri Lanka.

Muizzu described the visit as the beginning of a new phase in bilateral relations, with a commitment to strengthening cooperation, promoting regional stability, and advancing shared prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.

“Together, we will continue to build a partnership that delivers real results for our people and contribute meaningfully to the Indian Ocean region,” he said.