February 27, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake welcomed the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, H.E. Mr. Akio Isomata, to the Presidential Secretariat this morning (27) for a significant meeting aimed at enhancing diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.
During the meeting, Ambassador Isomata extended an official invitation to President Dissanayake to visit Japan, expressing strong appreciation for the new administration’s policy framework.
The Ambassador also conveyed Japan’s desire to deepen cooperation with Sri Lanka in various sectors, particularly in areas of security and economic development.
A key topic of discussion was Japan’s recent efforts to include Sri Lanka in its newly launched security cooperation assistance programme, which is designed to strengthen regional security and foster closer ties with Sri Lanka.
Ambassador Isomata underscored Japan’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka through various developmental initiatives.
The two leaders also engaged in a detailed conversation about the joint program between Japan, Switzerland, and South Africa, which focuses on national reconciliation efforts in Sri Lanka, particularly in the northern regions that have been heavily impacted by the 30-year conflict.
Both sides expressed a mutual interest in continuing to support these initiatives to promote long-term peace and unity within Sri Lanka.
In addition to these discussions, the current state of Japanese investments in Sri Lanka was reviewed. Particular attention was given to ongoing and future investments in the digital economy and infrastructure sectors, such as airport development and port modernisation.
Ambassador Isomata reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to Sri Lanka’s Digital Transformation Programme, highlighting Japan’s intention to invest in projects that will enhance the country’s digital capabilities and improve its transport infrastructure.
The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Dr. Duminda Hulangamuwa, Advisor to the President on Economic and Financial Affairs, Roshan Gamage, Senior Additional Secretary to the President, OHASHI Kenji, First Secretary and Head of Economics and Development Cooperation Section, and MURATA Shinichi, First Secretary and Head of the Political Section.
