Prof Peiris tells visiting dignitary:
Expanded role for Korean investors in SL
External Affairs Minister Professor G.L. Peiris held bilateral
discussions with former Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea and
President of the 56th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Han
Seung-Soo at the External Affairs Ministry recently.
Minister Peiris said that the grant aid given to Sri Lanka through
the Korea International Co-operation Agency (KOICA) had a significant
impact on improving infrastructure facilities in rural areas.
He referred in particular to the contribution made by KOICA to such
projects as the Korea-Sri Lanka Friendship Hospital in Matara, the
rehabilitation of eight schools in Ampara and Batticaloa districts, the
International Convention Centre in Hambantota, capacity building of
local authorities for emergency response in the Kalutara district and
the Pilisara programme for solid waste management which is expected to
be completed this year.
Han Seung-Soo expressed satisfaction that Sri Lanka is one of the
largest receivers of foreign direct investment from the Republic of
Korea. He agreed with Minister Peiris that it is appropriate for the
private sector in Korea to utilize the new economic opportunities
available in Sri Lanka in such areas as information technology,
manufacturing and livestock and the electronic and rubber sectors.
Prof. Peiris noted that more than 20,000 Sri Lankans are gainfully
employed in the Republic of Korea. He appreciated the expansion of
employment opportunities for Sri Lankans in Korea.
Minister Peiris briefed Han Seung-Soo on current developments in Sri
Lanka in respect of international relations. Jongmoon Choiy, Ambassador
of the Republic of Korea in Sri Lanka, was present at the discussion.
On the following day Prof. Peiris received a delegation of
Parliamentarians belonging to the Foreign Relations Committee of the
National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, for an in-depth discussion
of political and economic issues.
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