Sri Lanka to Sign Legal Assistance Agreement with Maldives on Criminal Matters

The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval for Sri Lanka to sign a landmark agreement with the Maldives on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters.

This move aims to address long-standing challenges faced by both nations in conducting joint investigations into transnational criminal cases due to the absence of a formal cooperation framework.

Although initial Cabinet approval was granted on 22nd September 2022 to pursue such an agreement, the signing had been delayed. However, recent developments have paved the way for finalization. The Government of the Maldives has expressed its full consent to the proposed draft agreement, and Sri Lanka’s Attorney General has also given clearance.

In light of this, the Cabinet has endorsed the proposal submitted by the Minister of Justice and National Unity to officially sign the agreement. The accord is expected to enhance legal collaboration between the two countries and strengthen regional efforts in tackling cross-border criminal activities.