17 August 2023
Colombo
High Commissioner H. E. Ali Faiz participated as the Chief Guest at the 15th Annual General Meeting of the Sri Lanka – Maldives Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
In his remarks, High Commissioner Faiz thanked the Executive Committee of the Council for the invitation extended and congratulated the newly elected President, Mr. Sudesh Mendis, Vice President and Executive Committee. High Commissioner Faiz commended the outgoing President Mr. Kevin Edwards for his commitment and hard work in pursuing the goals of the Council.
In his address, the High Commissioner highlighted the historical and close relations between the Maldives and Sri Lanka, and conveyed sincere appreciation for the close cooperation and support extended to the Maldives and its people by the Government of Sri Lanka.
High Commissioner further expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Sri Lanka, as it strives to recover from the challenges of the recent past. He added that a prosperous, stable and resilient Sri Lanka is also beneficial to Maldives and its people.
High Commissioner Faiz also shared the current trends on trade and investment between Maldives and Sri Lanka, and highlighted the investment opportunities available in the Maldives, especially in the hospitality and construction sectors. High Commissioner Faiz noted that the economy of Maldives is set to transform, through massive infrastructure developments and strong growth led by the robust recovery of tourism sector and other related sectors, under the visionary leadership of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
Sri Lanka – Maldives Business Council was launched on 25th May, 2007 following a recommendation made at the Sri Lanka – Maldives Joint Commission held in 2006. The prime objectives of the Council are to promote trade/ investment, services, tourism and joint ventures between Sri Lanka and the Republic of Maldives.
ENDS