Sri Lanka and Portugal have affirmed their commitment to further strengthening of bilateral relations.

This was deliberated during a meeting between the Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of Portugal Paulo Rangel and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombo.

Minister Paulo Rangel is currently on a working visit to Sri Lanka.

Welcoming his Portuguese counterpart, Foreign Minister Herath said that the visit is timely and significant. The Foreign Minister of Portugal also noted that it is time for the two countries to explore further avenues for cooperation based on the platform of rich cultural heritage.

The two Ministers discussed a wide range of matters of mutual interest, including those relating to trade and investment, tourism, consular affairs, cultural exchanges and contemporary global issues, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. They affirmed their commitment to further strengthening of bilateral relations and collaboration in multilateral fora. They expressed hope that the visit would serve as a catalyst in elevating bilateral relations beyond longstanding historic ties towards greater economic collaboration, through regular consultations.

Meanwhile, the Portuguese Foreign Minister also paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Dr.  Harini Amarasuriya. He is also scheduled to visit the Colombo Port, St. Anthony’s Church, Kochichikade, the National Museum Colombo and the Gangarama Temple.

Foreign Minister Vijitha Hearth was accompanied by the Foreign Secretary and senior officials of the Ministry at the bilateral talks. Foreign Minister of Portugal was accompanied by the Ambassador of Portugal to Sri Lanka, and senior officials from the Portuguese Foreign Ministry.