PRESIDENT ASSURES TO ESTABLISH CAMBODIAN AND SL EMBASSIES

President Maithripala Sirisena, who is in Cambodia on a state visit, yesterday stated that he would instruct the Foreign Affairs Ministry to take immediate steps to further improve diplomatic relations with Cambodia and establish embassies. In a statement, the President’s Media Division said President Sirisena held a meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Mr. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN on Thursday afternoon.

President Sirisena was accorded a grand welcome on his arrival at the Peace Palace by the Prime Minister of Cambodia. The Prime Minister recalled the strong religious and cultural ties between the two countries since ancient times.

The two leaders discussed ways to enhance tourism and trade.attention was also drawn towards the possibility of establishing direct flights between the two countries.they also discussed the signing of an agreement on civil aviation.

Despite long-standing bilateral relations, the embassies of the two countries have not been established and action should be taken to expedite the process and strengthening ties between the two countries.

They also discussed on inter-market opportunities and advantages between the two countries. Pointing to the need for a legal basis for investment protection, President Sirisena said that his foreign policy is that no country should be affected by the actions of another.

The Cambodian Prime Minister also expressed his condolences over the terrorist attack that Sri Lanka had to face on April 21.

Following the meeting with the leaders, two new Mous were signed between Sri Lanka and Cambodia.

State Minister of External Affairs Mr. Wasantha Senanayake signed the Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultation on behalf of Sri Lanka and the Foreign Secretary of Cambodia signed on behalf of the Government of Cambodia.the Chambers of Commerce of the two countries signed an agreement to establish a National Council of Cambodia and Sri Lanka.

President Sirisena also paid a visit to the historic and highly venerated Angkor Wat temple which is an UNESCO World Heritage site located at the Thailand – Cambodia Border yesterday.

He was accompanied by the Deputy Prime Minister of Cambodia, Samdech Chaufa Veng Som Ol. He also toured Bayon Temple at Angkor Wat city. (SAJ)

The two leaders discussed ways to enhance tourism and trade,and the possibility of establishing direct flights between the two countries