The Criminal Prevention Agreement with Sri Lanka has been referred to the Foreign Relations Committee of Parliament for consideration.

Earlier in June, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu submitted the work to the Parliament following the cabinet recommendation that the Maldives sign the 'Treaty between the Government of the Republic of Maldives and the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters'.

The President sent a letter to Parliament seeking its approval.

The purpose of the agreement with Sri Lanka is to maintain the long-standing relationship between the two countries and to provide assistance and cooperation to each other in the prevention of criminal offences.

In addition, the agreement will provide assistance in the widest possible range of criminal matters in accordance with the laws and regulations of the country and in accordance with the provisions of the Treaty.

The work on signing of a Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement between the Maldives and Sri Lanka began in 2011.