Mangala briefs Ambassadors on 4-month progress of new Govt.

Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera on Tuesday briefed ambassadors representing 24 countries and other senior diplomatic officials on the achievements of the last four months. He also outlined some of the Government’s future plans.

His briefing explained efforts to restore democracy through constitutional, administrative and cultural changes.

The critical importance the Government placed on efforts to build a “truly multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-lingual society where diversity is celebrated” and where all citizens would enjoy “full and equal citizenship” was also emphasised. In this context, he highlighted efforts to win the trust of all Sri Lankans and discussed plans to address key issues, especially missing persons, restoring land to rightful owners and reconciliation.

Samaraweera also noted that Sri Lanka, whose foreign policy has been reset to serve the interests of all Sri Lankans, was eager to regain its position as a constructive and respected member of the international community.

In order to facilitate communication and transparency the Minister also announced that the Ministry has appointed an official Spokesperson, Mahishini Collonne, who will hold regular briefings and interactions with the media and diplomatic community.

A range of other issues, including efforts to spur job creation and economic growth through foreign investment, trade and tourism, were also discussed.