Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena will leave for South Korea today on a three-day state visit from 28 to 30 November 2017 at the invitation of South Korean President Moon Jae-in.
President’s visit aims to strengthen diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Republic of South Korea. The visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
According to a statement by the South Korean President’s office President Sirisena is scheduled to start off the visit by paying tribute at the Seoul National Cemetery on November 29. Later in the day, he will attend an official welcoming ceremony, which will be followed by a summit and an MOU signing ceremony. President Moon will host a state dinner for the visiting President.
The two heads of state will evaluate the progress in bilateral relations over the past 40 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties. The two Presidents will also engage in in-depth discussions on how to promote substantive cooperation in various areas concerning the economy and society as well as on ways to work together in the global arena, including through international organizations.
“Building on the similar governing philosophy and vision to advance democracy and protect and promote the rights and interests of ordinary people, the two heads of state also intend to have a candid talk over ways to further upgrade friendly and cooperative relations between the two Governments and people of both nations,” President Moon’s statement said.
Agreements on Economic Cooperation, Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) and cultural cooperation, as well as MOUs on investment cooperation and the Employment Permit System (EPS) are to be signed between the two Governments during the visit.
President Sirisena is also scheduled to attend a business luncheon co-hosted by the four major Korean Business Associations, and meet with the Sri Lankan community in the Republic of Korea.
