New Zealand Minister visits Ceylon Chamber and ‘Colombo Tea Auction’

New Zealand’s Minister of Food Safety and Veteran Affairs David Bennett, who was in Sri Lanka on a three-day visit along with a business delegation, visited the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Tuesday morning. (7 March). 

David, who made a brief visit to the Chamber also observed the happenings of the ‘Colombo Tea Auction’, which is being held at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce premises, under the Bye-Laws and Conditions of the Chamber. 

The Minister was welcomed by the CEO of the Chamber Dhara Wijayatilake, while she was joined in by Honorary Consul of New Zealand in Sri Lanka Senaka Silva, Sri Lanka-Australia- New Zealand Business Council President Manjula Lanerolle, Colombo Tea Traders Association Chairman Anslem Perera and also Assistant Secretary General of the Chamber Cherryl Rodrigo.

During discussions, the Minister mentioned the importance of Sri Lanka further enhancing its existing strength in the areas of tea and cinnamon industries. He said, similarly, New Zealand is very keen on enhancing its dairy and agriculture sectors and also Kiwi fruits.

The Minister, who is also the Associate Minister of Immigration and Transport was accompanied by High Commissioner designate to Sri Lanka Joanna Kempkers and Acting Trade Commissioner for Sri Lanka Sanchia Yonge.