Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to India Austin Fernando met with Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State for Home Affairs on 27 December 2018 at the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Minister was assisted by Joint Secretary (IOR) of the Ministry of External Affairs Dinesh Patnaik and other officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs. Cordially welcoming the High Commissioner, Minister Rijiju emphasized the need to develop closer relations in the areas of religion, culture, economic activities, and especially in “Spiritual Tourism” that can benefit both countries positively.
In response, High Commissioner Fernando appreciated the special attention given by the Government of India in maintaining Buddhists places of worship in India. Furthermore, the High Commissioner mentioned that he would personally pursue Indian Credit Line projects to move forward from where it is slow. He further noted that there are around 1400 defence officials who are undergoing training in India and thanked the Government of India for the opportunities granted. The High Commissioner also briefed the Minister on the arrangements that are being made by the High Commission to organize a meeting with the participation of Tour Agents, hoteliers and officials dealing with tourism between India and Sri Lanka. Considering the adept knowledge that Minister Rijiju holds in this subject area, the High Commissioner invited the State Minister to attend this proposed meeting to be held in February 2019 to coincide with the Economic Diplomacy programme of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka.
