Sri Lanka-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Association revived

On the instructions of Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, MP, initiatives were taken by the Deputy Speaker Thilanga Sumathipala, MP, to revive the Sri Lanka-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Association for the 8th Parliament. A meeting presided by the Deputy Speaker was held on 11 August at the Parliament Complex. High Commissioner of Canada for Sri Lanka Shelley Whiting was present on the occasion.

Deputy Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs Arundika Fernando, MP was elected as the President of the SL-Canada Association. The Executive Committee members were also elected during this meeting.

The Deputy Speaker, in his address, stated that the present Government’s commitment to reconciliation, accountability, strengthening democracy, good governance and rule of law, has created a conducive environment for the engagement with the Sri Lankan diaspora in Canada. The potential to develop a positive and productive relationship with the diaspora community, especially to seek their assistance in contributing to the reconciliation process, economic development and capacity building in vital sectors such as education and health exists, stated the Deputy Speaker.  Towards this end, the Deputy Speaker expressed the SL Government’s desire to receive the Canadian government’s support.

High Commissioner Whiting thanked the Deputy Speaker for establishing the Friendship Association, and assured her support to strengthen the association further.