The Canada – Sri Lanka Friendship Group in the Canadian Parliament was formed on the 11^th of May. The election of office bearers was presided over by Deputy Speaker Hon. Anthony Rota. Pascale Massot, Policy Advisor to the Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Stephane Dion, was also present. 30 members of Parliament and Senators joined as members. Yasmin Ratansi MP for Don Valley East, a veteran politician from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Party was elected Chairperson. 

Speaking on the occasion, the Sri Lankan High Commissioner in Canada Ahmed A Jawad said that the Friendship Group was been formed at a propitious time in Sri Lanka - Canada bilateral relations, particularly in the context of the opening of a new chapter in ties, consequent to new governments  been elected to office in both countries. He outlined at length the steps been taken by the Sri Lankan government in regard to reconciliation and economic development, both of which he said were receiving high priority. 

High Commissioner Jawad also elaborated on the economic and Foreign Direct Investment opportunities arising from Sri Lanka’s fast tracked development thrust which has provided an opportunity for a number of Canadian companies to take part. 

A dinner was hosted by the High Commissioner at the Parliamentary Restaurant, New Zealand Room, at the conclusion of the event. 

High Commission of Sri Lanka

Ottawa. 

13^th May 2016.