Sri Lankan Community in Malé Expresses Gratitude for Maldives Cyclone Aid

Sri Lankan residents in Malé City gathered peacefully on Friday to thank the Maldivian government and people for their substantial support following the devastating Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka. Attendees told PSM News they would never forget the Maldives' timely assistance during their homeland's crisis. Many emphasized that despite the Maldives' small size, its contribution was both significant and deeply meaningful to those affected. Sri Lankan Ambassador to the Maldives Mohamed Rizvi Hassen expressed profound gratitude to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, the Maldivian government, private businesses, and the general public. He described the Maldives' support as something that would be "written in golden letters" in history, affirming that the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations remains unshakable. The cyclone has caused catastrophic damage in Sri Lanka, resulting in 355 confirmed deaths and 366 people still missing. More than 200,000 residents have been displaced from their homes due to widespread landslides and flooding. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Maldives provided total assistance worth USD 2.4 million through combined efforts from government, private sector, and public contributions. This comprehensive aid package included a government donation of USD 50,000, 25,000 cartons of canned tuna, and additional funds raised through a PSM telethon that mobilized national support.