“ I’m privileged to be here this evening, representing the Government and the People of Sri Lanka on the momentous occasion of the 44th National Day Celebrations of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
On behalf of His Excellency Ranil Wickremesinghe, the President and the Government and people of Sri Lanka, I wish to extend my sincere greetings and best wishes to His Excellency Ebrahim Raisi, the President and the Government and the friendly people of the Islamic Republic of Iran on this very special occasion.
Sri Lanka and the Islamic Republic of Iran enjoy very close and cordial relations since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1962, almost 60 years ago. With the opening of the Iranian Embassy in Colombo in 1975 and the Sri Lanka Embassy in Teheran in 1990, the bonds of friendship between the two countries have further been cemented.
The Islamic Republic of Iran is a country with a glorious history and rich culture, spanning centuries and our two nations share a long-standing and fulfilling relationship. The warm and cordial bilateral ties that exist between the two countries are a reflection of the abiding friendship, mutual understanding, and close cooperation that we have enjoyed over several decades and I am confident that the relations will consolidate further and grow.
Excellencies, Ladies, and Gentlemen,
The exchange of high-level visits between the two countries reflect the strength of cordial relations. In addition, the establishment of the Sri Lanka – Iran Parliamentary Friendship Association in 2016 contributed to further strengthening our relations.
I am confident that, despite the current economic and social challenges posed by the post-COVID-19 pandemic, Sri Lanka and Iran will overcome them through our best efforts and close cooperation.
We wish to invite our Iranian friends to visit Sri Lanka and enjoy its rich diversity and tourist attractions as it is among the best tourist destinations.
Excellencies, Ladies, and Gentlemen,
Last but not least, I wish to acknowledge the contribution made by H.E. Hashem Ashjazadeh, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran for further strengthening our relations to the next level.
