President Dr Mohamed Muizzu of Maldives and Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya of Sri Lanka reaffirmed the strong economic and historical ties between the two neighbouring nations at the Maldives–Sri Lanka Business Forum held in Colombo, where more than 400 business leaders, investors, and policymakers gathered to explore new avenues for bilateral cooperation.

President Muizzu described the Maldives as “a nation on the rise”, highlighting ongoing reforms aimed at encouraging private sector-led growth, investment, and entrepreneurship. He noted that the Maldivian Government has introduced a modernised foreign investment framework and revised investor entry requirements to strengthen transparency and investor confidence.

Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya meanwhile emphasised Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery and structural reforms, stating that the country is steadily building a more resilient and stable economic foundation. She also expressed appreciation for the Maldives’ support following Cyclone Ditwah, describing it as a reflection of the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Tourism, fisheries, food production, logistics, renewable energy, digital services, and financial services emerged as key sectors for collaboration. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$137 million in 2025, although leaders from both nations acknowledged that the partnership holds significantly greater potential.

The forum highlighted a shared vision to transform historical ties into stronger commercial integration and long-term regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean.