Lanka proposes FTA with Japan
Ready to consider, says Japanese Trade Minister:
The Government of Japan in keeping with the policy of Prime Minister
Naoto Kan’s administration is prepared to engage in consultations with
regard to a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Sri Lanka and Japan,
Japanese Economy, Trade and industry Minister Masayuki Naoshima said in
Tokyo.
|
External Affairs Minister G.L. Peiris and Economic
Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa in conversation with
Japanese Economy, Trade Industry Minister Masayuki Naoshima
on Thursday. |
He was responding to a request by External Affairs Minister Prof G L
Peiris and Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa that Japan
should consider entering into a Free Trade Agreement with Sri Lanka in
recognition of the vast opportunities available in Sri Lanka in respect
of investment and trade. Minister Naoshima said that the first hand
impressions of influential Japanese personalities like Japan’s special
representative Yasushi Akashi, Nippon Foundation Chairman Xohei Sasakawa
and JICA Head Madam Ogata who had a good understanding of developments
in Sri Lanka, were of immense value to the Japanese Government in
shaping current policy.
He assured the Ministers that Japan would enhance maximum assistance
in a new stable and peaceful Sri Lanka.
Ministers Peiris and Rajapaksa explained to him the steps now being
taken by the Sri Lankan Government to move the country forward in every
sphere.
Minister Naoshima expressed appreciation particularly about the rapid
progress in the resettlement of internally displaced persons.
At their meetings with both Minister Naoshima and Deputy Chief
Cabinet Secretary of Japan Tetsuro Fukuyama, Minister Peiris and
Rajapaksa thanked Japan for generous assistance given in the
construction of Mannar bridge, the Vavuniya-Kilinochchi highways, the
hospital in Jaffna, the Upper Kotmale hydro-electricity project and
other major development programs.
The Sri Lanka Business Forum organized by the Tokyo Chamber of
Commerce and Industry, attracted a large number of Japanese investors
and entrepreneurs in a variety of fields.
The two Sri Lankan Ministers are detailed presentation about the
opportunities available in the country. Particular emphasis was placed
on sections like construction, fisheries, the health sector, small and
medium scale industry and value addition into agriculture and marketing.
A comprehensive presentation was made by the Minsiters Peiris and
Rajapaksa to Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada. |
