Minister Mahinda Yapa meets Iranian counterpart:

Focus on bilateral issues

Agriculture Minister Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena who visited Tehran, Iran to attend an International Seminar on rural development in the Asia Pacific region met Iranian Agriculture Minister Sadeq Khalilian at the Espinas Hotel and Resort in Tehran and held bilateral discussions on a range of issues relating to both countries. Minister Abeywardena expressed Sri Lanka's gratitude and thanks to Iran for maintaining high level bilateral relations and coming to Sri Lanka's assistance in difficult times.

A press release by the Agriculture Ministry said special attention was drawn during the discussions on the importance of the Iran funded Uma Oya hydro electricity and Irrigation project, high expenditure involved in tea tasting relating to tea exports to Iran, possibility of providing training in Iran for Sri Lankan agricultural scientists.

Minister Abeywardene also apprised the Iranian Minister about investment opportunities available in Sri Lanka for Iranian private sector investors.

Minister Abeywardene also invited the Iranian Agriculture Minister to visit Sri Lanka on an official tour. Agriculture Ministry Additional Secretary Shantha Amitiyagoda was also present at the discussion.