(NewsRadio); Ambassador of Sri Lanka Mohamed Mafaz Mohideen has said Qatar and Sri Lanka have embarked on significant developments in bilateral relations this year, and seek to further boost cooperation in areas that matter to both countries.
Ambassador Mohideen said Sri Lanka seeks to enhance the longstanding ties with Qatar by focusing on untapped potentials in the corporation.
Addressing an event in Doha, Ambassador Mohideen said: “We have longstanding relationship with Qatar, established in 1976 with ambassadorial level diplomatic relations and reinforced through high level visits and several bilateral agreements. I believe there is much untapped potential in our partnership and cooperation.”
“Therefore, I propose that we take a leap forward in our relationship from a declaration phase to an implementation phase in generating tangible outcomes on the agreements that we have reached with the blessings of our leaders and policy makers,” he added.
Ambassador Mohideen noted that Sri Lanka is seeking to develop ties in trade and commerce, tourism, education and other areas.
“On the bilateral front we have seen significant developments this year. Qatar Charity has recommenced their work in Sri Lanka which would provide tangible outcomes benefiting vulnerable and marginalised communities. Discussions are also underway between Ministry of Education in Sri Lanka and Education Above All Foundation in order to provide assistance in the education front,” he added.
Ambassador Mohideen also added that the Sri Lankan embassy in Doha seeks to establish a Foreign Ministry level consultation committee; organise the third session of the Qatar-Sri Lanka Joint Economy, Commercial and Technical Commission; and create a platform which would act as an umbrella organisation in promoting trade between Qatar and Sri Lanka.
He also emphasised on the ongoing economic challenges in Sri Lanka and said that the country has overcome several hardships in the past with resilience, and lauded the support extended by Qatar in overcoming the situation prevailing in Sri Lanka.
