The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Cuba, Sarath Dissanayake presented his Letter of Credence to the Acting President of the Republic of Ecuador, Jorge David Glas Espinel on 28th September 2015, as Sri Lanka’s first Ambassador to Ecuador, at a simple but colorful ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Quito, the capital of Ecuador.
Ambassador Dissanayake was among the group of 17 envoys who presented credentials to the Vice President of Ecuador on this occasion. Following the ceremonial welcome accorded by the Presidential Guard, each Ambassador - designate was received by the Vice President for a brief exchange of views and pleasantries. After presenting his Letter of Credence to the Vice President, Ambassador Dissanayake conveyed the greetings and best wishes of President Maithripala Sirisena to the President and the people of Ecuador. The Vice President, in turn, greeted the Ambassador and conveyed best wishes to him on being appointed as Sri Lanka’s first Ambassador to Ecuador. While thanking the Vice President for the kind sentiments expressed, Ambassador Dissanayake spoke about his commitment to further strengthen friendly ties and cooperation between Sri Lanka and Ecuador for mutual benefit, following which, the Vice President wished him all success.
Prior to presenting credentials, Ambassador Dissanayake had an opportunity to meet with the Foreign Minister of Ecuador, Ricardo Armando Patiño Aroca at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During discussions, the Ambassador briefed the Foreign Minister on the opportunities available in Sri Lanka’s trade, tourism, infrastructure and construction sectors for the promotion of bilateral trade, investment and people to people contacts. The Ambassador expressed his sincere appreciation to the Minister for the hospitality and excellent arrangements made during his stay in Quito.
Sri Lanka and Ecuador established Diplomatic relations in 2011 and both countries have shared perspectives and common interests on many a regional and global matters.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Havana
16 October 2015
