The Maldives High Commission in Sri Lanka hosted a special reception in Colombo to commemorate the 61st Independence Day of the Republic of Maldives, with a strong emphasis on further strengthening the longstanding political and social ties between the two countries.
The event was attended by 528 guests, including Sri Lankan ministers, provincial governors, deputy ministers, senior military officers, government officials, ambassadors and diplomats based in Sri Lanka, and prominent members of the business community.
The reception was graced by Sri Lanka's Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr Nalinda Jayatissa, who conveyed his Independence Day greetings to the Government and people of the Maldives during his address.
He also highlighted the historic relationship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka, noting that the agreement recognising the Maldives' independence was signed in Sri Lanka, underscoring the country's place in the Maldives' history.
Maldives' High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Masood Imad, also addressed the gathering, reflecting on the deep historical ties between the two nations.
In his speech, the High Commissioner described President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's official visit to Sri Lanka in May this year as a significant milestone that elevated bilateral relations to a new level. He also thanked Maldivian and Sri Lankan companies for their support in organising the reception.
The event also showcased the Maldives' rich cultural heritage through a variety of traditional performances.
These included Boduberu procession as well as other traditional performances. The cultural items were performed by Maldivians living in Sri Lanka and Maldivian students pursuing their education in the country.