Hon. Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana Leads Parliamentary Delegation to the Maldives

Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana, Speaker of Parliament of Sri Lanka, led a parliamentary delegation to the Republic of Maldives from the 11th to the 14th of August 2024. The official visit was made at the invitation extended by Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, aimed at strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

During the visit, Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, at the President’s Office on the 13th of August 2024. The President warmly welcomed the Speaker and his delegation, noting the deep-rooted friendly relations between the Maldives and Sri Lanka. The discussions centered on the President’s hopes for a peaceful Presidential election in Sri Lanka, with positive outcomes that would further contribute to the nation’s development and prosperity.

The delegation engaged in high-level discussion with Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, where both sides confirmed their commitment to enhancing parliamentary cooperation. Discussions were focused on the development of the tourism and fisheries industry, emphasizing the importance of mutual cooperation in these key sectors for the economic prosperity of both nations. The Speaker of Sri Lanka and his team were given a comprehensive tour of the People’s Majlis, gaining valuable insights into the legislative processes of the Maldives.

The delegation led by Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana, Speaker of Parliament of Sri Lanka explored key cultural and infrastructural sites in the Maldives, including visits to the National Museum, the Air Taxi Terminal, and a tour of the Hulhumale’ development project, which provided the delegation with a broader understanding of the Maldivian cultural heritage and its ongoing advancements in infrastructure. The visit ended with underscoring the strong and cooperative ties between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, reflecting a shared commitment to mutual respect and collaboration.

The delegation included Hon. Ajith Rajapakse, Deputy Speaker, Hon. Piyankara Jayaratne, Member of Parliament, Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera, Secretary-General of Parliament, and Mr. Hansa Abeyratne, Assistant Secretary-General of Parliament.