Addressing media subsequent to the bilateral discussions with his Sri Lankan counterpart this morning (17th April) at the President’s House in Hanoi, PM Xuan Phuc stated that they appreciate the friendliness extended by Sri Lanka for Vietnam and its people at all time.

Emphasizing that Sri Lanka is a powerful state located in a strategic location in the Indian Ocean, he also stated that they entered into an agreement to strengthen the relations in the sectors of petroleum oil and gas, infrastructure, IT, garments, agriculture and fisheries, renewable energy, aviations services, education and tourism between the two countries.

PM Wickremesinghe pointed out that the both countries share historical relations.  Based on the past experiences, both countries should work closely for the betterment of the future generations, he added.

He said, both countries faced deadly wars and are now on the path to development and have moved to middle income countries. “It is the intention of the government to learn lessons from Vietnam and develop Sri Lanka. That is the reason why we accepted the invitation from Vietnam Prime Minister.” He said that the unity government led by President is a good opportunity for that.

PM Wickremesinghe also invited his Vietnamese counterpart to visit Sri Lanka with the intention of strengthening the relations between the two countries.