President Sirisena was warmly received by the Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom when he arrived at the Dharubaaruge Hall.

The President also engaged in very cordial and friendly discussions with other visiting foreign dignitaries. Subsequent to that, he joined the Independence Day celebrations.

The Maldives which was governed by Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialists had been ruled by a Sultan when it received the freedom from British colonialists in 1965.

The Maldivian Independence Day celebration coincides with the completion of the 50 years of diplomatic relationship between Sri Lanka and Maldives. Several Sri Lankan National Flags were hoisted at the venue to mark the 50 years of diplomatic relations.

The Independence Day celebration included cultural activities depicting strong relationship between Sri Lanka and the Maldives.