President Maithripala Sirisena concluded a three-day official visit to Malaysia which saw both countries renewing diplomatic ties and spearheading development and investment opportunities for Malaysian companies in Sri Lanka.
President Sirisena was received by Malaysian Human Resource Development Minister Dato Sri Richard Riot Anak Jaem and senior officials including staff members of the Sri Lanka High Commission and their family members at the airport. He was accorded State honours that included a guard of honour at the airport.
The President also met Prime Minister Abdul Razak of which the highlight of the meeting was bilateral discussions and the signing of five agreements relating to foreign employment, youth development, tourism, culture and agriculture.
President Sirisena said the new agreements would pave the way to renewed relations between the two countries in the fields of tourism, education, foreign employment and agriculture. The President also called on the Malaysian Prime Minister to introduce a new scheme to expand the educational opportunities for Sri Lankan students to study in Malaysia.
The President said the visit marked a historic point, as it was the first time Malaysia had made an official invitation to a Sri Lankan leader in 19 years. He thanked the Government of Malaysia for extending this invitation.
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak pointed out that world attention has been drawn to the harmony and reconciliation programme in Sri Lanka. He also added that his government was willing to extend support for education and training in the technical sector.
The President also met the King of Malaysia, Sultan Muhammad at the Palace. During the discussion King Sultan directed the Malaysian government to give every support to Sri Lanka.
President Sirisena also participated in the Sri Lanka–Malaysia Business Forum where the discussions focused on enhancing trade and investment opportunities. A large number of investors and businessmen from both countries were present during the panel discussions. The President, referring to the next three years which has been earmarked as an era for development, requested Malaysian investors to invest in Sri Lanka adding that he was ready to provide all facilities for the investors on this regard.
A food and culture festival to mark the 60th anniversary of Sri Lanka–Malaysia Diplomatic relations. The food festival comprised of a lavish spread of both Sri Lankan and Malaysian cuisine, where Veteran Chef Publis Silva also helped host the event.
The President further stated that Sri Lanka will celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Malaysia. He also invited the Malaysian Prime Minister to visit Sri Lanka. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mangala Samaraweera, Deputy Minister of Foreign Employment, Manusha Nanayakkara, Deputy Minister of Cultural Affairs, Palitha Thevarapperua and the former Mayor of Colombo A. J. M. Muzammil were part of the delegation to Malaysia.