President leaves for South Korea

President Maithripala Sirisena will undertake a three-day-state visit to South Korea from today on an invitation from Korean President Moon Jae-in.

A Presidential Secretariat spokesman said the visit was significant for several reasons, main among them being the economic and investment ties with South Korea where some 30,000 Sri Lankan workers are employed.

The visit coincides with the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Republic of Korea. When the President visits the Cheong Wadae or the Blue House, the official residence of President Moon, he will be ceremonially received and accorded a guard of honour with a 21-gun salute. The two leaders will discuss matters of mutual interest to strengthen co-operation between the two nations, following which a bilateral meeting will be held with the participation of Sri Lankan and Korean ministers.

Agreements on economic co-operation, economic development co-operation fund (EDCF) and cultural co-operation, as well as Mous on investment co-operation and the Employment Permit System (EPS) are to be signed by the two governments.

President Sirisena will visit Jogyesa Temple, an ancient Korean Buddhist shrine and later pay respects at the Memorial Tower, a monument to remember the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the motherland.

He will also attend a business forum attended by four major Korean Business associations and potential major investors.

The agreement on establishing an employment permit system will assist current and future Sri Lankan workers in Korea. More employment opportunities for Sri Lankan workers in Korea are important areas beneficial to Sri Lanka.

The spokesman said the President’s visit to Korea is expected to result in substantial results in bilateral co-operation, investment, trade and commerce and employment.

The visit coincides with the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Republic of Korea.