A productive discussion was held today between the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, Arun Hemachandra, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Sri Lanka, Semih Lutfu Turgut.
During the Deputy Minister's recent official visit to Turkey, political ties between the two countries were revitalised across six key sectors. In today's meeting, both parties focused on the proper implementation of the two bilateral agreements signed during that visit. Furthermore, both sides agreed to expedite the conclusion of the remaining bilateral agreements currently pending finalisation.
Key Points
- A meeting was held between Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra and Turkish Ambassador Semih Lutfu Turgut.
- Focus was placed on implementing two agreements signed during the Turkey visit and expediting other pending pacts.
- Discussions also covered exploring Turkish investment opportunities in Sri Lanka's domestic aviation sector.
Trade and Economic Relations
The meeting reviewed the recent growth in Sri Lanka's tea exports to Turkey, despite shifts in the global market. The necessity of diversifying bilateral trade and promoting business-to-business exchange programmes was also underscored.
Aviation and Cultural Sectors
Views were also exchanged on enhancing transport connectivity and cultural ties between the two nations. In particular, the possibility of exploring Turkish investment opportunities to establish domestic airline services in Sri Lanka was discussed.
Additionally, both parties focused on avenues to further expand cooperation in cultural tourism as well as in the conservation of archaeological heritage sites.
