October 04, Colombo (LNW): Korean Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Miyon Lee, reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to Sri Lanka, even during challenging times, by engaging in business activities and development projects. Speaking at a reception held at the Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo to mark Korea’s National Foundation Day on Wednesday (2), the Ambassador highlighted Korea’s active role in resuming support for Sri Lanka, especially through the reimbursement for pending projects following the signing of the MoU with the Official Credit Committee in July.
Ambassador Lee praised the efforts of the Korean Embassy and agencies like KOICA, KOTRA, the Korean EXIM Bank, and others, which have contributed to various economic and development projects in Sri Lanka. These projects span diverse areas, including education, governance, agriculture, and healthcare, while Korea’s loan programs focus on transportation, energy, and water supplies. She emphasized Korea’s interest in promoting trade, investment, rural development, and women’s empowerment, sharing the country’s experiences and advanced technologies.
Ambassador Lee also noted the crucial role of Korean communities and companies in fostering trade and investment between the two nations, particularly in manufacturing, where they continue to transfer skills and technologies.
Western Province Governor Hanif Yusuf, the Guest of Honour, remarked on the dynamic new phase in the Sri Lanka-Korea relationship, underscored by increased high-level visits and stronger people-to-people ties. He noted that the number of Sri Lankans migrating to Korea for employment has grown by 44% over the last year, with over 30,000 Sri Lankan workers contributing significantly to both economies.
Governor Yusuf further highlighted the success of Sri Lankan migrant workers in Korea, mentioning the recent recognition of a Sri Lankan worker as the “Best Shipbuilding and Offshore Worker” by the Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy.
The event was attended by former ministers, parliamentarians, diplomats, and key military officials, including Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, and the commanders of the Sri Lankan Army, Navy, and Air Force.
