Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid said that discussions will be held with Sri lankan President Maithripala Sirisena regarding an ease of visa processes for Maldivians in Sri lanka. The Minister is currently accompanying President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on an official visit to Sri lanka on the occasion of Sri lanka’s 71st Independence day.

The Minister said this during an interview given to One Online at the meeting of President Solih with Maldivian nationals residing in Sri lanka today.

Shahid said that this is the first time that a leader of another nation has been invited to take part in Sri lanka’s Independence day celebrations as the guest of honor. He said as such, that this is a historic occasion and that the ties between the two nations will be strengthened on this current visit.

The Minister also said that the thoughts of the current administration align with providing ways for there to be ease in several processes for Maldivians residing in Sri lanka. As such, President Solih has announced today that Maldivians in Sri lanka will be afforded the national insurance scheme Aasandha while in Sri lanka starting from 1 April 2019.

The Minister reported that the highest priority will be given to discussions with Sri lankan President Maithripala Sirisena regarding providing an ease of visa processes for Maldivians in Sri lanka. Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated that he hopes for success in these discussions.