The two leaders discussed a number of matters of mutual interest, including the joint economic commission. The progress of the memorandums of understanding (MoUs) on youth and skills development, sports and training in various sectors was discussed. The MoUs were signed when the Maldivian President was in Sri Lanka on a state visit in January of this year.

President Rajapaksa thanked Maldives for its support to Sri Lanka in the U.N. Human Rights Council (UNHRC), noting that Maldivian officials in Geneva worked actively on behalf of Sri Lanka.

President Gayoom had a specific request for President Rajapaksa - to make a visit to Maldives.

The Maldivian President was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Ms. Dunya  Maumoon and a high-level delegation.

The Sri Lankan delegation consisted of Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris, Minister of Livestock and Rural Community Development Mr. Arumugam Thondaman, Monitoring MP of the Ministry of External Affairs Mr. Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, Mayor of the Jaffna Municipal Council Mrs. Yogeswaray Patgunarajah, Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga, Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs Mrs. Kshenuka Senewiratne.

HC/NP_PS&IMU_Pix By: Nalin Hewapathirana