As part of the government policy on focusing and reconnecting with the countries in the African Continent, President Ranil Wickremesinghe met with the envoys from the region. The meeting was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 03rd February 2023 at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo. Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry, making the introductory remarks, stated that given the importance Sri Lanka attaches to the countries in the African region the meeting was organized to coincide with the momentous occasion of Sri Lanka’s 75th anniversary of independence.
The President explained that the Government of Sri Lanka is keen on building better relations with African countries, considering the strong political relations and the shared solidarity over the years and the potential to enhance economic cooperation. The meeting also focused on the current global developments including conflicts and their possible impact on the countries in the respective regions.
The President also briefed the envoys on the current developments and the economic challenges faced by Sri Lanka and the measures taken by the government to overcome them. He stressed the importance of working together with countries in the African region facing similar challenges and to have a stronger voice.
The envoys appreciated the interest shown by Sri Lanka in the African region and assured their cooperation in the enhancement of relations between Sri Lanka and their respective countries.
Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane and Adviser to the President on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardene also took part in the meeting. Seventeen Ambassadors and High Commissioners from the African region participated in person while three joined online. The five Sri Lankan envoys based in the African region participated virtually.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Sri Lanka.
