The President who arrived at the official residence of the Thailand Prime Minister was warmly welcomed by the Prime Minister Chan-o-cha. The welcome ceremony included a Guard of Honor.
After the welcome ceremony, the two leaders commenced bilateral talks. The discussions focused on the fields of politics and culture of the two countries.
President Sirisena stated that a government of good governance which gives priority to democracy has now been established in Sri Lanka. He said the aim of the new government is to take the concept of consensual politics forward. “The government is committed to strengthen the constitution at every occasion’, he added.
Prime Minister Chan-o-cha said the program of the new government of Sri Lanka is exemplary to the entire world. “The Sri Lankan President’s visit to Thailand is a significant occasion to our country”, Mr. Chan-o-cha added.
The Prime Minister of Thailand pointed out that all countries should work with consensus to prevent political problems between countries.
President Sirisena made a special request to the Prime Minister of Thailand to support Sri Lanka in technological and research work. The Prime Minister expressed his agreement in this regard.
Prime Minister Chan-o-cha stated Thailand investors are keen to invest in Sri Lanka in the fields of mineral oil, fishing and health. He added that a group of investors will come to Sri Lanka in the near future to explore possibilities for investment.
Attention was also paid on the decline of the number of Thai tourists to Sri Lanka, compared to the Sri Lankan tourists to Thailand. He pointed out it is due to the inadequate communication given to the world about the historic heritage and cultural values of Sri Lanka.
The two leaders discussed the importance of increasing the number of flights between the two countries and Thai Prime Minister agreed to come up with a future program for the implementation of a plan to increase flights.
Furthermore, the Thai Prime Minister pointed out that as Buddhist countries, the cultural ties between Sri Lanka and Thailand could help the two countries to move forward for a strong journey economically and politically.
A special commemorative stamp was launched to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Bi-lateral discussions between Sri Lanka and Thailand were held parallel to this meeting and Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Primary Industries, Daya Gamage, Southern Province Governor Hemakumara Nanayakkara, Chief Minister Shan Wijayalal De Silva, Chief Minister of the Central Province, Sarath Ekanayake and Chairman of Board of Investments Upul Jayasuriya represented Sri Lanka during the discussions.
To celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand and in parallel to the state visit, President Sirisena declared open the exhibition of the Sarvagna Dhathu from the Mahiyangana Rajamaha Viharaya, at the Buddhamanthan Temple this afternoon.
