President arrives in Seoul on 3-day state visit

President Maithripala Sirisena received a warm welcome when he arrived at the Incheon International Airport in Seoul last morning (November 28) for a 3-day state visit to the Republic of Korea on an invitation extended by the South Korean President Moon Jae-in.

He was received by the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cho Hyun, Chief of National Security, Chung Eyi-yong and other high dignitaries at the airport on his arrival.

The Korean newspapers stated yesterday that the visit of Sri Lankan President Sirisena was significant in many aspects as the two countries enjoy excellent relations.they also expressed gratitude to Sri Lanka for the support extended during the crisis situation in the Korean peninsula.

The visit takes place in conjunction with the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Republic of Korea. President Sirisena and President Moon Jae-in are scheduled to hold summit discussions at the Cheong Wa Dae or the Blue House, the official residence of President Moon today. Following this a bilateral meeting will be held with the participation of visiting Sri Lankan Ministers and Korean Ministers.

Agreements on economic cooperation and cultural cooperation, as well as Mous on investment cooperation and the Employment Permit System (EPS) are to be signed between the two Governments during the visit.there are about 30,000 Sri Lankan workers employed in Korea. President Sirisena is also scheduled to attend a business forum and to hold discussions with four major Korean Business associations who are all potential major investors

Ministers Dr Sarath Amunugama and Ranjith Siyambalapitiya also arrived with the President and two other ministers Malik Samarawickrema and Thalatha Athukorale who are expected to join the delegation later. Minister of Foreign Affairs,tilak Marapana and Minister Daya Gamage arrived in Seoul yesterday.