President spoke at a state banquet in Colombo, urging closer cooperation between the two island neighbours
“Together we can turn the Indian Ocean, once a passage of merchants, into a living bridge of innovation, prosperity and shared hope.”
— President Dr Mohamed Muizzu
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called on the Maldives and Sri Lanka to work more closely together so that both countries can make better use of the Indian Ocean — and make sure the benefits reach ordinary people.
He made the remarks at a state banquet hosted by the Sri Lankan government, where he described the ocean not as a dividing line between the two countries, but as a shared road that has long connected their histories, cultures, and economies.
The President stressed that keeping the Indian Ocean safe, stable, and open for all is something both nations must work on together — and that doing so is the best way to make sure its economic potential benefits citizens on both sides.
Muizzu described the two countries as close neighbours — “like one family” — and said the bond between them goes beyond short-term gains. It is built, he said, on deep mutual respect that has grown over many years. He acknowledged that Sri Lanka has stood by the Maldives in difficult times and said Maldivians remain grateful for that support.
Key areas of cooperation
Digital transformation
Sustainable tourism
Renewable energy
The President also raised the issue of climate change, calling it the single biggest challenge facing small island nations like the Maldives. He noted that both countries have had to build resilience against natural disasters and the effects of human-caused environmental damage.
Looking ahead, Muizzu said both governments are already actively working together on digital transformation, sustainable tourism, and renewable energy — areas he sees as central to the future of both nations.
