The President today met with the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Mr. Ratnasiri Wickremanayake.

The two leaders discussed ways to develop the existing close friendly relations between the two countries.

Speaking at the meeting, the President noted the strong historical ties between the Maldives and Sri Lanka. He further thanked the Sri Lankan government for the assistances rendered in promoting Maldivian history and culture. The President further highlighted the importance of strengthening the cooperation between the Maldives National Centre for Linguistic and Historical Research and Sri Lankan authorities, in protecting historical places in the Maldives.

In the meeting, Prime Minister Wickremanayake said that the government of Sri Lanka attach a high priority to strengthen the ties between the two countries in various areas.

The meeting was also attended by the Sri Lankan Minister of Housing and Constructon, Mrs Ferial Ashraff. Speaking at the meeting, she said that the government of Sri Lanka would provide the technical support and assistance needed for the development of housing industry of Maldives.