Sri Lanka-Portugal affirm commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties

The Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of Portugal Paulo Rangel, on a working visit to Sri Lanka met the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath on 24 February at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombo.

Welcoming his Portuguese counterpart, Foreign Minister Herath said that the visit is timely and significant. The Foreign Minister of Portugal also noted that it is time for the two countries to explore further avenues for cooperation based on the platform of rich cultural heritage.

The two Ministers discussed a wide range of matters of mutual interest, including those relating to trade and investment, tourism, consular affairs, cultural exchanges and contemporary global issues. They affirmed their commitment to further strengthening of bilateral relations and collaboration in multilateral fora. They expressed hope that the visit would serve as a catalyst in elevating the bilateral relations beyond longstanding historic ties towards greater economic collaboration, through regular consultations.

The Portuguese Foreign Minister paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Dr.  Harini Amarasuriya later in the day. The programme also included visits to the Colombo Port, St. Anthony’s Church, Kochichikade, the National Museum Colombo and the Gangarama Temple.

Foreign Minister Vijitha Hearth was accompanied by the Foreign Secretary and senior officials of the Ministry at the bilateral talks. Foreign Minister of Portugal was accompanied by the Ambassador of Portugal to Sri Lanka, and senior officials from Portuguese Foreign Ministry.