The High Commission of Sri Lanka in the Maldives commemorated the 78th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence on Wednesday, 04 February 2026, reaffirming the deep-rooted friendship between the two Indian Ocean neighbours through a flag hoisting ceremony and a high-level diplomatic reception.
The official celebrations began at the High Commission premises with a flag hoisting ceremony attended by members of the Sri Lankan community residing in the Maldives. The official celebrations began at the High Commission premises with a flag hoisting ceremony attended by members of the Sri Lankan community residing in the Maldives. The programme featured the singing of the national anthem, the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, multi-faith religious observances, and the reading of Independence Day messages from President Anura Kumara Disanayaka, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
Addressing the gathering, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the Maldives, Hassen, underscored the strong reputation Sri Lankan expatriates enjoy in the Maldives, describing them as a trusted and skilled community that has made meaningful contributions to the host country’s economic and social development. To ensure inclusivity, the Mission facilitated live online access for community members unable to attend due to work commitments.
The celebrations continued later in the evening with a diplomatic reception held at Hotel Barceló Nasandhura, organised with the support of Sri Lankan and Maldivian businesses. The reception was attended by senior Maldivian government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and representatives of the Sri Lankan community.
In his welcome address, High Commissioner Hassen reflected on the long-standing historical ties between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, noting that bilateral relations have been further strengthened in recent years through high-level exchanges and growing cooperation. He also highlighted progress made by the Sri Lankan government toward economic stabilisation and the promotion of a clean, corruption-free political culture.
The Chief Guest of the evening, Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel, reaffirmed that Maldives and Sri Lanka share an unbreakable bond forged over centuries of cultural interaction, mutual respect, and close people-to-people ties.
The event concluded with a vibrant showcase of Sri Lankan and Maldivian music, a raffle draw, and a diverse spread of Sri Lankan cuisine, symbolising the cultural closeness and enduring friendship between the two nations.
