Emphasis on Economic Diplomacy - Minister

THE Vice Chairman of Ceylon Chamber of Commerce J.D. Bandaranaike and senior officials of the Chamber and Presidents of the 19 Business Councils called on the Minister of Foreign Affairs Rohitha Bogollagama at the Foreign Ministry on September 13.

Discussions focused on the promotion and advancement of economic objectives of the country by strengthening linkages between and among the Chamber, Business Councils and the Foreign Ministry.

Minister Bogollagama said that he was currently placing particular emphasis on Economic Diplomacy Initiatives. The Minister reiterated his intention to fully deploy the resources of the Foreign Ministry, both in Colombo and in Missions overseas, to optimally realised the potential economic opportunities.

The Minister said that the Economic Affairs Division of the Ministry would coordinate, facilitate and consult with the private sector and the Chambers of Commerce in Sri Lanka, on a regular and structured basis, in order to achieve these objectives. Highlighting the significance of the private sector initiatives in bringing development to the people of the country, Minister Bogollagama requested the Chambers to proactively participate in profiling Sri Lanka overseas.

Participants from the Chamber and Business Councils highlighted the need for regular interaction, so that the specific needs of the private sector could be conveyed to Missions overseas for appropriate action.