Press Releases

It is an honor to be here today, inaugurating the Consulate General of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in Nicosia, alongside my colleague, the Honorable Mr Tilak Marapana, who is on his first official visit to Cyprus. Today we are adding another important channel of cooperation to the ties that bind us, one which we are confident will provide further impetus to strengthening our relations.    

Despite the 5,680 km that separate our island states, we share many of the same ideals and principles that have guided our close cooperation in many international organizations and fora, like the United Nations and the Commonwealth. At the same time, we share a common historical past plagued by conquests, colonial struggles and wars of independence which has been instrumental in creating bonds of friendship. The lessons we have learnt regarding the perils of intolerance and extremism, have compelled us to focus on democracy, sovereignty, territorial integrity, the rule of law and the respect of human rights. 

We also share a common vision for a better future that is being shaped, on the one hand, by our political and economic links. Following the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1963, our relations have grown steadfastly. However, we have not fully realized the potential of our cooperation in areas such as trade, commerce, tourism, investment and education, which now with your physical presence in Cyprus, we hope to advance. We are committed to deepening our bilateral relations in all areas for the mutual benefit of our peoples.

On the other hand, our common vision for a better future is also shaped by our people to people contacts. The presence of a growing Sri Lankan community and migrant workforce in Cyprus has been instrumental in reinforcing the strong bond between our two countries and fostering greater solidarity amongst our two peoples. Their contribution has been invaluable.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express Cyprus’ appreciation for Sri Lanka’s position on the Cyprus issue and its support to our efforts to end the Turkish occupation and reunify our island through a viable and comprehensive settlement, in line with the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and EU law, values and principles. A solution that will safeguard the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus, without foreign guarantees and intervention.

Prior to concluding, allow me to once again congratulate you for the opening of the General Consulate here in Nicosia and extend my best wishes to the Government and the people of Sri Lanka.

With this, I wish to raise my glass to the good health and prosperity of our two peoples and countries.

(MCH/ML/II)