Sri Lanka High Commission in Ottawa

Developments in Sri Lanka Consequent to the recent Unrest in the Country

We trust the attachment demonstrates the commitment of the Government to deal with the issue by restoring normalcy, while addressing in a comprehensive manner matters that would require follow-up, including those relating to the payment of compensation, non-occurrence etc.

12th March 2018

President Maithripala Sirisena to visit Japan and India

At the invitation of the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, President Maithripala Sirisena will undertake a State visit to Japan from 12 to 17 March 2018.

President Sirisena is scheduled to have an Imperial Audience with His Majesty, Emperor Akihito on 13 March, and on 14 March, he will meet Prime Minister Abe for summit talks. Following talks, the Japanese Premier will host the Sri Lankan President to a State dinner. The two leaders will discuss matters of mutual interest to deepen cooperation between Sri Lanka and Japan.

Special Announcement by President Maithripala Sirisena on March 06th, 2018

President’s Media Division

Special Announcement by President Maithripala Sirisena on March 06^th, 2018

(At President’s Office)

I decided the make this special address today, as a tense situation has occurred during the last few days owing to several very unfortunate incidents in several parts of the country, causing disharmony and tensions among ethnic groups.

From the past, our country has experienced internal as well as external struggles. However, ours is a country where Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher and all other communities have lived with peace, unity and harmony together. If we look at the decade of 1940, we know how we Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim people worked together like brethren to free our country from the grip of colonial masters. It was unfortunate that peace and unity among ethnic groups deteriorated, leaving the country in a situation of protracted war that brought about many a crisis.

Special Envoy of the Anti-personnel Mine Ban Convention HRH Prince Mired Al-Hussein to visit Sri Lanka

At the invitation of the Government of Sri Lanka, the Special Envoy of the Anti-personnel Mine Ban Convention, Prince Mired Raad Zeid Al-Hussein of Jordan will undertake an official visit from 5 – 7 March 2018.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations between Canada and Sri Lanka

Canadian Assistant Deputy Minister for Asia Pacific Donald Bobiash meets Foreign Minister and Foreign Secretary

Assistant Deputy Minister for Asia Pacific of Global Affairs Canada, Donald Bobiash, met Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana and Foreign Secretary Prasad Kariyawasam on 26 February 2018. Discussions included exploring possibilities for improving trade, promoting Canada as a destination for Sri Lankan students, advancing reconciliation in Sri Lanka, and setting up a mechanism for structured regular engagement between Canada and Sri Lanka.