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Malaysia–Sri Lanka relations refers to bilateral foreign relations between the two countries, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. Malaysia has a high commission in Colombo, and Sri Lanka has a high commission in Kuala Lumpur.
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History
Relations between Sri Lanka and Southeast Asian countries has started since a long time ago when Sri Lanka became the main entrance to the Bay of Bengal. During the time, there are connection between Sri Lanka and the Malay Peninsular due to trade activities. Some proof also can be found in a book by S. Paranavitana with a title "Ceylon and Malaysia" which published in 1961.
In the modern time, the current diplomatic relations has been establish since 1957, President Chandrika Kumaratunga made a state visit on 1997 and several memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed during the meeting.
In 2016 December President Maithripala Sirisena made 3-day state visit to Malaysia, to improve relationship the two countries. Several memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed during the meeting with Prime Minister Najib Razak
Economic relations
Malaysia is one of the major trade partner for Sri Lanka, and among the leading investors in the country with the trade relations are expected to reach U$1 billion in 2015. In 2011, trade between the two countries reached U$814 million with exports from Malaysia amounting to U$644 million while imports accounted to U$169 million. A joint commission also focused on some issues for both sides especially on economic and commercial matters, technical and scientific co-operation and in areas such as tourism, culture, sports, immigration and human resources development.