German Ambassador promotes business opportunities in Sri Lanka at Hamburg event

Tuesday, 17 March 2015 00:15 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

German Ambassador Dr. Juergen Morhard was a speaker at the yearly East Asian Business Conference, organised by the German Asia-Pacific Business Association (OAV) in Hamburg, held earlier this month.

The event aims to promote closer ties between businesses in the two regions and presents a key networking opportunity that attracts hundreds of high-level decision-makers. In his presentation, Ambassador Morhard expressed confidence in opportunities for business in Sri Lanka, and was cautiously optimistic about new incentives being introduced by the Board of Investment. He counselled a “wait-and-see” approach, while reiterating that the Sri Lankan economy was growing and presented a great deal of potential. He invited German businesses to come and see for themselves as soon as possible. The OAV works on the promotion of bilateral economic relationships between Germany and the Asia-Pacific region. Through its corporate and institutional network, the OAV facilitates business interests of German companies. Besides its strong corporate network, the OAV cultivates close contacts with relevant institutions in Germany and the Asia-Pacific, such as the German Chambers of Commerce network and embassies abroad.

Ambassador Pruegel concludes visit to Sri Lanka

Ambassador Peter Pruegel visited Sri Lanka from 9-13 March to meet with Government officials, political leaders, civil society members and religious representatives in Colombo and the North. During his trip he was informed about the progress and challenges in ensuring good governance,

democracy and sustainable economic development as well as the desire for reconciliation, justice and accountability. Concerning the investigation into the final stages of Sri Lanka’s civil war, Pruegel said: “The German Government encourages the Government of Sri Lanka to continue the ambitious reform process, while strengthening good governance and civil society.” He further stated that Germany was looking forward to being a partner in Sri Lanka’s economic development. Ambassador Pruegel also reviewed the ongoing development cooperation projects being carried out by GIZ and discussed new areas for cooperation. Germany remains committed to working with the Government of Sri Lanka to promote greater peace and prosperity for the Sri Lankan people, he said.