FM Vijitha Herath concludes visit to New Zealand…

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, undertook an official visit to New Zealand at the invitation of New Zealand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters, from 26 May to 31 May 2026. A key highlight of the visit was the ceremonial opening of the Sri Lanka High Commission in Wellington by Minister Herath, in the presence of Foreign Minister Peters, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and the Sri Lankan community. Minister Herath was accorded a traditional Māori Pōwhiri ceremonial welcome at New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, followed by comprehensive bilateral discussions with Minister Peters. The two sides engaged in productive deliberations on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including political engagement, trade and investment, agriculture and dairy cooperation, education, tourism, and sports. Reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the growing friendly relations between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, the two Ministers agreed to enhance economic cooperation, including through the conclusion of a Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA).