RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMBO — Fouzan Anwar, former Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Palestine, held discussions with Ali Kebriaei Zadeh, Cultural Counsellor of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Sri Lanka, at the Iran Cultural Centre on Thursday, 16 July.
During the meeting, both sides recalled the long-standing friendship and strong bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Iran.
Ali Kebriaei Zadeh, the Cultural Counsellor, spoke of the long history of cooperation between the two countries and praised the kindness and hospitality of the Sri Lankan people. He stated that Sri Lanka holds a special place in Iran’s foreign relations and that efforts are being made to further enhance cultural and academic cooperation between the two countries.
Fouzan Anwar expressed his appreciation of Iran’s long-standing support for Sri Lanka and thanked the Government of Iran for its assistance during times of crisis. He also referred to Iran’s contribution to the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project, describing it as an important symbol of cooperation between the two nations.
The former Ambassador also referred to Iran’s unique cultural and civilizational characteristics, stating that these have enabled many countries to better understand Iran’s position under the current circumstances and to attach greater importance to strengthening their relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The meeting concluded with discussions on ways to further expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
At the end of the meeting, Cultural Counsellor Ali Kebriaei Zadeh presented a commemorative gift to Fouzan Anwar, while Anwar presented Sri Lankan tea as a gesture of goodwill and friendship.
