Former President Mohamed Nasheed has said that lifting border controls between the Maldives and Sri Lanka would be beneficial for both countries. He noted that easing travel restrictions would support economic and social development and strengthen long-standing ties between the two nations.

Nasheed highlighted that removing visa and work permit requirements could boost cooperation in tourism, trade, and people-to-people exchanges. His comments come amid concerns over difficulties faced by Maldivians in obtaining Sri Lankan visas.

Maldivian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Masood Imad has pointed out that Maldivians often face long queues for visa services, with processing limited to office hours, although applications can now be handled through agents. He also noted that travel by Maldivians to Sri Lanka for education and medical treatment has declined due to these challenges.