Discussions between Maldives and Sri lanka have officially begun at the office of the Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

The discussions were attended by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Sri Lankan President, Maithripala Sirisena and various senior officials of both governments.

In addition to President Solih, the Maldivian officials include Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, Minister of Economic Development Uz. Fayyaz Ismail, the Minister of National Planning and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam and Minister of Education Dr. Aishath Ali.

President Solih’s arrival at the Sri lankan President's office for official discussions this morning was greeted by a warm welcoming of a 21-gun salute.

It has been reported that in addition to bilateral discussions, one-to-one talks will also be held today. President Solih and First lady Fazna Ahmed are set to attend an official luncheon hosted by Sri lankan President Maithripala Sirisena. Official photos will be taken at the luncheon held today at the residence of the Sri lankan President.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is also set to meet the former President of Sri lanka and current opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa this evening at the Hilton Hotel.

President Solih is currently on his ongoing visit to Sri Lanka, as the guest of honor for the occasion of the country’s 71st Independence Day on the invitation by the President of Sri Lanka, Maithripala Sirisena.

While President Solih had attended the official Independence Day celebrations as the guest of honor yesterday, the President is set to return to Maldives sometime tonight.