Cyprus expresses interest in enhancing bilateral relations with Sri Lanka

Consul General of Sri Lanka in the Republic of Cyprus M.H.M.N. Bandara (left) with President of the House of Representatives (Speaker of Parliament) Annita Demetriou 

The Consul General of Sri Lanka in the Republic of Cyprus, M.H.M.N. Bandara called on President of the House of Representatives (Speaker of Parliament) Annita Demetriou, on 5 August.

The Consul General handed over the felicitation message issued by Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena for the newly-appointed President of the House of Representatives on her assumption of duties.

During the official discussion, the President of the House of Representatives highlighted the excellent bilateral relations maintained by both countries and she emphasised that this is the time to explore more economic-orientated activities between Cyprus and Sri Lanka other than the political relationship.

Also, she mentioned that the former President of the House of Representatives has extended an invitation to the Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka to visit Cyprus and she hopes the visit would be arranged in due course.

The President of the House of Representatives decided to reactivate the Cyprus-Sri Lanka Parliament Friendship group and is also willing to work with the Commonwealth Parliament Association in which both countries have been members.

Sri Lanka and Cyprus established diplomatic relations in 1963 and the Resident Consul General office was opened on 19 February 2019. There are over 6,000 Sri Lankans living in Cyprus in various occupations; also, two Sri Lankan temples are based in Nicosia with four resident Sri Lankan monks.

Cyprus and Sri Lanka are willing to establish more trade links on the areas of agricultural products, shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, crude oil and chemicals.