Sri Lanka - Qatar:
Ties expanded
A strong foundation exists for a significant expansion of the
investment and trade relationship between Sri Lanka and the State of
Qatar with the eradication of terrorism and the establishment of
stability, External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris said at his
audience with Emir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani
at the Emiri Diwan in Doha.
External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris meeting Emir of
the State of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani |
The Emir recalled his meeting with President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the
sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in September last year
in New York.
The Emir welcomed the opportunity to work with Sri Lanka in the new
situation. Minister Peiris said a treaty for the avoidance of double
taxation has been signed by the two countries, and discussions were
initiated to establish Joint Commission and the provisions of a proposed
investment agreement.
The two sides agreed to work together towards rapid implementation.
They also discussed a proposal for a multi-purpose storage facility in
Colombo for liquid natural gas, of which Qatar is the largest producer
in the world, for trans-shipment purposes, skilled employment from Sri
Lanka and a range of issues connected with food security.
The Emir offered assistance with regard to Hi-Tech projects.
The Emir said Sri Lanka is considered a suitable destination for
investment.
Minister Peiris held a discussion with Prime Minister and Foreign
Affairs Minister of Qatar Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabir Al-Thani at the
Prime Minister's Office. Tourism was identified as a promising area for
collaboration and a joint project was to be formulated.
Plans were discussed to bring about closer interaction between the
Chambers of Commerce in the two countries.
Prof Peiris also met Social Affairs Minister and Acting Labour
Minister Nasser bin Abdullah Al-Humidhi. |