Maithri hopes to work with re-elected British PM to strengthen bilateral relationship

President Maithripala Sirisena says he is looking forward to working with the newly-elected leader of Britain to further strengthen and consolidate the bilateral partnership between Sri Lanka and the UK.

In a congratulatory message to the re-elected British Prime Minister David Cameron, the Sri Lankan President, recalling his meeting with the PM in London recently, said Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom have a multifaceted relationship based on longstanding ties.

“I recall our recent meeting in London and the ensuring discussions on resetting relations between our two countries. I look forward to working with you to further strengthen and consolidate our bilateral partnership,” President Sirisena said.

The Sri Lankan President expressed confidence that the “able stewardship and experience” of the PM would contribute to steering the UK into a period of enhanced growth and prosperity.

The following is the full text of the President’s message: I wish to extend my felicitations on the resounding victory of the Conservative Party under your leadership at the parliamentary general elections that just concluded and on your being appointed to the office of Prime Minister for a second term. I have no doubt that your able stewardship and experience will contribute to steer your country into a period of enhanced growth and prosperity.

The mandate you received from the people of the United Kingdom manifests the trust and confidence placed in you. During your first term of office, you were able to guide your country successfully through a period of global economic turbulence by courageously pushing ahead with policy reforms that helped improve the economic conditions of especially the vulnerable segments of British society.

Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom have a multifaceted relationship based on our longstanding ties. I recall our recent meeting in London and the ensuring discussions on resetting relations between our two countries. I look forward to working with you to further strengthen and consolidate our bilateral partnership.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurance of my highest consideration and best wishes for your health, happiness and success in your tenure of office.