Former President Mohamed Nasheed says removing border controls between the Maldives and Sri Lanka would significantly benefit the people of both countries.
In a post on X, Nasheed said that removing border controls between the two neighbours would foster greater economic and social integration between the two countries.
Nasheed further said that eliminating visa requirements and work permits could enhance trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.
His post follows the Maldivian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Masood Imad, who lamented the treatment of Maldivians seeking visas in Sri Lanka.
In an interview with a Sri Lankan media outlet, the High Commissioner claimed that Maldivian nationals are forced to languish in long queues from 9 am. to 5 pm. to secure a visa, and there seems to be a lack of understanding that Maldivians are also foreigners, similar to those with fair skin.
The High Commissioner said that Sri Lanka has long been regarded as the premier and most desirable destination for Maldivians seeking education and healthcare, but this situation is swiftly changing. He further stated that Maldivian citizens are being reprimanded and shouted at by Emigration and Immigration Department officials in Sri Lanka.
