President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday received H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed conveyed to President Sirisena the greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and their wishes for continued progress and prosperity.

The Sri Lankan President extended his greetings to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, and wished the UAE further development and progress.

During the meeting, the parties discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations, develop joint cooperation between the two countries, and exchange views on a number of regional and international issues of common concern.

Sheikh Abdullah emphasised the importance of enhancing economic cooperation and developing investment opportunities between the two sides and supporting joint projects that achieve the development objectives of both countries.

President Sirisena welcomed the visit of Sheikh Abdullah and highlighted his country's keenness to strengthen relations with the UAE in various fields. He also praised the UAE's achievements in terms of a comprehensive cultural renaissance, thanks to the UAE's vision and its wise leadership.