Let's derive mutual benefit from geo-political Proximity

India and Sri Lanka enjoy a vibrant and multi-faceted partnership and the challenge now is to derive the full benefit from the geographical proximity and enhance connectivity in economic ties by developing nation-to-nation relations in a mutually beneficial manner, said Indian High Commissioner Ashok K Kantha at the revived Sri Lanka-India Parliamentary Friendship Association's meeting held in Parliament last Wednesday.

The Indian High Commissioner participated at the event on the invitation of Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa.

Leader of the House, Irrigation and Water Resources Management Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva was elected President while Prof Rajiva Wijesinha was elected Association Secretary .

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said: "India and Sri Lanka have maintained a long legacy of historic links and meaningful friendship. Specifically, we have had a shared commitment to preserving democracy and adopting a non-aligned foreign policy. India gave us unconditional assistance at a time the country needed it most. India extended us its unstinting support during the tsunami disaster in 2004. Our bilateral relations should be strengthened for co-operation in a wide range of spheres."

The meeting was attended by a gathering that belonged to different political parties. International Monetary Co-operation Senior Minister Sarath Amunugama, Livestock and Rural Development Minister Arumugam Thondaman, UNP MP Sajith Premadasa and TNA MP R Sambandan were elected Vice Presidents.

A decision was taken at the meeting to set up an executive committee first and then establish a forum with all political parties representing the Parliament.

Government Chief Whip Minister Dinesh Gunawardane, Minister Douglas Devananda, UNP Deputy Leader Karu Jayasuriya, MPs Sudarshani Fernandopulle, John Amaratunge and Suresh Premachandra were also present.