The Maldives’ decision to join an agreement with Sri Lanka for mutual legal assistance in criminal matters has been referred to the Parliament’s Foreign Relations Committee for consideration.
During a Cabinet meeting held on June 2, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu decided that the Maldives would 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".
Article 93(a) of the Maldives Constitution states that treated entered into by the Executive in the name of the State with foreign states and international organizations shall be approved by the Parliament, and would come into force only in accordance with the decision of the Parliament. Therefore, the President has referred the matter to the Parliament for approval .
According to the President’s Office, the agreement aims to strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two countries and enhance cooperation in preventing criminal offenses. The agreement also provides for the widest possible assistance in criminal matters in accordance with the respective laws and regulations of both countries.
The signing of a Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement between Maldives and Sri Lanka began in 2011 during the administration of President Mohamed Nasheed.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe
