Prime Minister of Bahrain affirms strengthening cooperation with Sri Lanka

Thursday, 12 September 2019 00:38 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Bahrain Pradeepa Saram and Manama Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa

Welcoming the newly appointed Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Bahrain Pradeepa Saram at Riffa Palace, Manama, Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa affirmed Bahrain’s interest in strengthening cooperation and friendship with Sri Lanka and wished her success in her diplomatic mission.

Conveying greetings and best wishes from the President and the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Ambassador Saram expressed the gratitude to the Bahrain government for the support extended to Sri Lanka at regional and international fora.

Ambassador emphasised that both countries share commonalities entrenched in their shared history and rich cultures, sustained by growing economic linkages, and had enjoyed cordial bilateral relations even before the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1992.

Ambassador Saram recalled the Bahraini Premier’s successful visit to Sri Lanka in July 2009, noting that its positive results have further strengthened the friendly relations reflecting traditionally close ties and common interests of the two countries in all sectors, and underlined the importance of enhancing high-level political exchanges, trade and economic relations and people-to-people contacts. Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa was the first world leader to visit Sri Lanka after the defeat of terrorism, and Bahrain was also one of the very first countries that extended condolences in the wake of the Easter Sunday bomb attacks on 21 April, and extended solidarity and support in denouncing terrorism.

Ambassador Saram briefed the Premier on the current situation in Sri Lanka following the Easter Sunday attacks, and highlighted that Sri Lanka had returned to normalcy and was safe for travellers.

Highlighting the good reputation maintained by the Sri Lankan expatriate community, the Prime Minister said that expatriates make up an important part of the Bahraini society, and have contributed alongside Bahraini citizens to the progress of the Kingdom in all areas. He further said that he appreciated Sri Lankans’ positive attitudes towards Bahrain and their constant keenness on strengthening its position at all levels. Ambassador Saram added that the Sri Lankan migrant workers are considered to be high-skilled and competent, and their contributions and remittances are the highest to the country’s economy.

The meeting at Riffa Palace was attended by the Minister of Cabinet Affairs of Bahrain, Head of Prime Minister’s Court, Advisor of the Prime Minister and other senior officials of the Prime Minister’s office.