Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the Maldives, H.E. Mohamed Rizvi Hassen, used the 78th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence to spotlight his country’s economic recovery, clean governance agenda, and deepening partnership with the Maldives during a diplomatic reception held in Malé.
Delivering the keynote address at the event hosted by the High Commission of Sri Lanka at Barceló Nasandhura, High Commissioner Rizvi Hassen said Sri Lanka is steadily regaining economic stability and rebuilding international confidence under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, while advancing a principled, corruption-free political culture.
Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s journey since gaining independence on 4 February 1948, the High Commissioner noted that the country has endured and overcome significant challenges while upholding democratic values, unity, and peaceful coexistence. Marking 78 years of independence, he said Sri Lanka now stands on a stable foundation and remains firmly committed to sustainable development and national progress.
He also referred to Sri Lanka’s recent experience with a major natural disaster, noting that while the impact was deeply painful, recovery efforts were strengthened by early government action and the support of international partners and stakeholders.
A central theme of the address was the close relationship between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, which High Commissioner Rizvi Hassen described as a brotherly bond rooted in history, shared culture, and strong people-to-people ties. He expressed heartfelt appreciation for the solidarity shown by the Maldivian leadership and citizens across all atolls during the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
The reception was attended by Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel as Chief Guest, along with cabinet ministers, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and representatives of the Sri Lankan community. The High Commissioner also conveyed gratitude for the felicitation message sent by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to the President and people of Sri Lanka on the occasion of Independence Day.
Highlighting bilateral engagement, High Commissioner Rizvi Hassen said ties between the two countries have been strengthened through high-level exchanges and expanding cooperation in education, health, defence, trade, culture, and tourism. He pointed to the state visit of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to the Maldives last year and the visit of Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel to Sri Lanka earlier in 2025 as milestones in bilateral relations.
He further revealed that preparations are underway for another high-level visit from the Maldives to Sri Lanka, aimed at reinforcing cooperation across all sectors. The Sri Lankan expatriate community in the Maldives was praised for its positive contribution to Maldivian society, with appreciation extended to the Maldivian government for the hospitality and respect accorded to Sri Lankan nationals.
In brief remarks, Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel reiterated that Maldives and Sri Lanka share an unbreakable bond built on centuries of friendship, mutual respect, and close cultural ties.
The evening concluded with cultural performances, a raffle draw, and a showcase of Sri Lankan cuisine, symbolising the enduring partnership between the two island nations.
