President in Libya

President Mahinda Rajapaksa who left for Libya on a two day State visit arrived at Serte Airport at 4.10 pm Sri Lanka time yesterday(8).

The Serte Airport situated in the birthplace of Libyan Leader Col. Muhammar Abu Minyar Al-Gaddafi is specially reserved for welcoming foreign leaders and special dignitaries.

At the Airport to receive the President and entourage was Libyan Prime Minister Dr. Baghdadi Ali Al Mahmudi and Foreign Minister Moosa Mohamed Kosa.

The President and entourage were thereafter led along the red carpet whilst being accorded special state honours and military gun salute.

This was the first occasion that a Sri Lankan leader has undertaken a State visit to Libya. Discussions were to be held between the respective leaders on vital bilateral issues while several agreements are also to be signed beneficial to both countries.

Prior to this, the President and the Libyan leader were scheduled to hold a round of discussions last evening.

In addition, the President and his team was also scheduled to meet Libyan Prime Minister Dr. Bagdhadi Ali Al Mahmudi before attending a banquet hosted by the Libyan leader.