Maldivian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Masood Imad, on Friday, has met with Namal Rajapaksa, a senior figure from Sri Lankan opposition party, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), just days after slamming poor visa facilitations for Maldivian nationals traveling to Sri Lanka.
In an interview with Sri Lankan media outlet, Daily News, Masood questioned why Maldivians traveling to Sri Lanka are receiving “step-motherly” treatment by Sri Lankan immigration officials.
The High Commissioner warned that the Maldivian government will be forced to revise its visa policy concerning Sri Lankan professionals working in various sectors within the Maldives if the situation persists.
Masood’s meeting with Namal, former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa’s son, was announced by the latter via a post on X.
In this regard, Namal said the meeting was held at SLPP office on Friday.
Met H.E. High Commissioner Masood Imad at the SLPP office today.Sri Lanka is a second home for many Maldivians.Constructive engagement is key to strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing mutual understanding, and strengthening cooperation between our countries.Together, we… pic.twitter.com/GNpSK74quo
— Namal Rajapaksa (@RajapaksaNamal) January 9, 2026
Citing Sri Lanka as a second home for many Maldivians, Namal stressed that constructive engagement is key to strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing mutual understanding, and strengthening cooperation between both countries.
“Together, we can take our partnership to new heights,” he added.
Masood’s interview has drawn criticism from many, including the opposition and experienced diplomats, who say his language was inappropriate. Moreover, they have emphasized that concerns surrounding visa-related issues should be brought forth in this manner.
A seasoned diplomat with over 20 years of experience told Sun that it is not typical practice for diplomats posted abroad to meet opposition figures in the host country.
The diplomat further noted that since the present Sri Lankan government has strong backing from its citizens, and thus, a diplomat engaging with opposition figures would be improper. The diplomat added that even if such meetings are held, they usually coincide with presidential elections.
Many have raised concerns over the possibility of Imad’s remarks straining ties with Sri Lanka. It has further ignited criticism against the current administration for its poor foreign policy.
Maldives had strained relations with India at the onset of the current administration due to the ‘India Out’ campaign during the administration’s time in opposition and derogatory remarks made by three deputy ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This led the administration to take remedial measures, which drew further criticism for their perceived irony.