SL, Myanmar to expand ties

Union of Myanmar Ambassador to Sri Lanka U Ohn Thwin made a farewell call on the External Affairs Deputy Minister Neomal Perera at the ministry on June 22.

Sri Lanka's rapid economic growth was commended by the Ambassador. "With President Mahinda Rajapaksa's far-sighted vision for the future, the country will develop in leaps and bounds," he stated. He was also impressed by the confidence and trust people have in the country's defence forces and the justice system.

The deputy minister expressed the need to improve trade relations between Myanmar and Sri Lanka, identifying shipping, air transport and tourism sectors. He invited Myanmar to participate in the FACETS Gem and Jewellery Exhibition to be held in Sri Lanka in September.

The need to hold the third Joint Commission Consultations between Myanmar and Sri Lanka was also discussed.

Deputy Minister Perera thanked the Myanmar government for the marble Buddha statue presented to Sri Lanka.

Ambassador Thwin is expected to donate a gold leaves plated Buddha statue to the Nagadeepa Vihara in Jaffna.