External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris met his Sudanese counterpart Foreign Minister Ali Ahmed Kartion at the sidelines of the UNGA in New York on Tuesday 24th September. The two Ministers discussed ways and means of enhancing the bilateral relationship between the two countries. Prof. Peiris observed that Sri Lanka attaches great importance to expanding its relations in Africa, and towards that end has initiated the establishment of diplomatic relations with several African countries. In this context he stressed the importance of strengthening particularly the economic and trade relations and the exchange of expertise. Minister Peiris also offered assistance to Sudan in healthcare and education, which sectors are particularly strong in Sri Lanka. Appreciating the offer, the Sudanese Minister observed that they would welcome training in nursing and opportunities for Sudanese students to study in Sri Lanka. He added that Asian-African collaboration was important and should be nurtured in bilateral as well as the multilateral context.
Minister Peiris was of the view that South - South trade links would be mutually beneficial and should be developed, and encouraged establishing the necessary legal framework with Sudan to facilitate increased trade links. Observing that air connectivity would be essential to facilitate business exchanges and people to people contacts, Minister Peiris informed the Sudanese Minister that Sri Lankan Airlines would soon be flying to Seychelles which would be an entry point to the African continent.
The two Ministers also agreed that exchange of visits at Foreign Minister level would provide a further impetus to the bilateral relationship.
Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka
New York
25 September 2013
