The two ships arrived at the Port of Male yesterday (April 07) and they were ceremonially welcomed in accordance with the Maldivian traditions.

The two Sri Lankan naval ships carry 249 officers and sailors as well as 28 Officer under trainees.

The Commanding Officers of the two ships, Captain Pujitha Vithana and Captain Priyal Withanage called on the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Maldives, Chief of Defense Force and Commander of Maldivian Coast Guard.

During the ships' stay the Sri Lankan crew will visit places in Maldives with historic and archeological importance.

The two navies will also play a friendly game of football and basketball on 8th April with a view to strengthening the relationship between the two nations.

SLNS Suranimala and SLNS Shakthi will sail back to Sri Lanka on 10th April 2016, having completed a joint naval exercise with the ships of Maldivian Coast Guard.