Enhanced ties between Sri Lanka and Myanmar

A Statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, Colombo

(August 17, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) Myanmar’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs U Maung Myint, on a bilateral visit to Sri Lanka, called on Deputy Minister of External Affairs Neomal Perera at the Ministry of External Affairs on 15th of August. During the bilateral discussions both Sri Lanka and Myanmar pledged to further enhance and consolidate relations between the two countries based on cultural and religious affiliations which date back to many centuries.

The Myanmar Deputy Minister gave an updated account of the political process underway in the country, highlighting the recent election of the new Constitutional Government of the Union of the Republic of Myanmar. He reiterated their firm commitment to further strengthening democracy in the country.

Extending the personal best wishes of the President and the Foreign Minister of Myanmar to the President and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, the visiting envoy congratulated Sri Lanka on the successful elimination of terrorism and steering the country towards economic and social development.

Deputy Minister Perera identified the need for connectivity as a priority area in further enhancing opportunities for collaboration between the two countries, particularly with the advent of peace and stability in the country.

Both sides acknowledged the need to convene the 3rd session of the Joint Commission in Myanmar at a mutually convenient time towards the latter part of 2011. The gem and jewellery sector, trade in services and Buddhist circuit tourism were focused upon as potential areas for a collaborative partnership.

While recalling the State visit of the President to Myanmar in 2009 for the 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations, Myanamar visiting envoy reiterated the need for high level visits in the future and proposed to have a mechanism in place for Foreign Ministry level consultations.

The Deputy Minister of Myanmar who arrived in Sri Lanka at the invitation of the Deputy Minister of External Affairs would be in the country from 15th – 18th August 2011. During his stay, he called on the Minister of External Affairs, Prof. G. L. Peiris. He also visited Anuradhapura and Kandy and held discussions with the Chief Minister of the North Central Province and expressed resolve to work towards strengthening religious ties between the two countries.