Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has expressed profound gratitude to Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu for the Maldivian government's generous support and kind message during a critical time for Sri Lanka as it reels from the devastation of Cyclone Ditwah.
President Dissanayake highlighted that "the solidarity demonstrated by our neighbour has been deeply reassuring to our people and reflects the strength of our longstanding relationship," underscoring the vital role of regional camaraderie.
The comprehensive assistance from the Maldives includes a significant financial contribution of over USD 800,000 raised through a public media telethon, along with an additional USD 50,000 directly from the Maldivian government. Beyond monetary aid, the island nation has also generously donated 25,000 cases of tuna cans to Sri Lanka.
The efforts extend beyond state channels, with Maldivian businessmen actively providing assistance in various forms, and the Maldives High Commission in Sri Lanka working diligently to support the locals in need of assistance.
President Dissanayake reiterated that the Government and people of Sri Lanka have gratefully accepted these concerted efforts, which not only provide crucial relief but also powerfully reinforce the enduring bond between the two Indian Ocean neighbours.