Sri Lanka & Austria to build a fresh momentum for cooperation in all areas of mutual interest

“Our main focus was on strengthening high levels of bilateral exchange has made in place, thus helping to expand the cooperation in the fields of trade and economic relations, culture, education and sports, “ stated President Maithripala Sirisena delivering a media statement following official talks with the Federal President of Austria, Heinz Fischer, in Vienna on February 19.

Trade and investment between our two countries are also showing a significant and a positive sign, he further said.

Following is the full text of the Media statement:

Your Excellency,

Members of the Media,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to address you today from this majestic and historical imperial Hofburg Palace. I greatly value this opportunity to visit your beautiful country.

I thank the President tothe people and the government of Austria for the warm welcome accorded to me and my delegation. Sri Lanka and Austria have enjoyed friendly and cordial diplomatic relations for over six decades. I have just concluded a very productive discussion with His Excellency the Federal President. We discussed the ways of making our partnerships stronger.

Our main focus was on strengthening bilateral trade and the bilateral high-level exchange has made in place, thus helping to expand the cooperation in the fields of trade and economic relations, culture, education and sports. Austria has provided a number of scholarships to Sri Lankan students in the hospitality management filed thereby contributing to the development of Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector. On economic and trade cooperation ,I am happy that the Austrian companies are active in many fields in my country, implementing a number of projects. Among others, we discussed matters of mutual interests such as joint investments, ventures and opportunities including, increase market access.

We would work closely together to ensure that both countries benefit from the changes that are taking place in Sri Lanka and from the peace dividend. Trade and investment between our two countries are also showing a significant and a positive sign.

We are keen that our trade volume turnover , there will be a momentum in the coming years. Ceylon tea is becoming popular in Austria and I have learnt that Ayurveda has become a significant attraction for Austrain tourists.

My Dear Friends, in conclusion, I extend my warm good wishes for the continual progress and prosperity of the people of Austria and for the long lasting friendship between our two countries.

Thank You.

 

(President’s Media)