RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMBO — The revival meeting of the Sri Lanka – Viet Nam Parliamentary Friendship Association was held in the Parliament of Sri Lanka on Tuesday March 11, under the patronage of the Prime Minister, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Speaker of the Parliament, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne and Leader of the Opposition, Sajith Premadasa. The Ambassador of Viet Nam to Sri Lanka, Trinh Thi Tam, graced the occasion as the guests are of honor and Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Members of Parliament and the Secretary General of Parliament Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera were also present.
During the meeting, Minister of Environment, Dr. Dammika Patabendi, was elected as the President of the Sri Lanka –Viet Nam Parliamentary Friendship Association while Member of Parliament, Mrs. Hasara Liyanage was elected as the Secretary.
Addressing the gathering, Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne emphasized the longstanding friendship between the two nations and stated that this gathering marks a renewed chapter in the strong and friendly relationship with Viet Nam. He noted that partnership with Viet Nam is on the basis of mutual respect and establishment of the Parliamentary Friendship Association would strengthen the long-standing cooperation between both countries with renewed commitments.
Speaking at the occasion, Ambassador of Viet Nam, Trinh Thi Tam reviewed the fine cooperation between the legislative bodies of Viet Nam and Sri Lanka, as well as their pivotal role in nurturing Viet Nam-Sri Lanka relations over the years. Ambassador underlined the importance of reviving the Friendship Association, given the upcoming visit to Sri Lanka by a high level delegation from the National Assembly of Viet Nam. Her Excellency further praised the existing bilateral relations, displaying confidence that the Association would further strengthen cooperation between legislative bodies and nations, including monitoring agreements and coordinating at international forums. She also expressed the Embassy’s readiness in extending any assistance for the Association.
The newly elected President, Minister Dammika Patabendi, in his remarks, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Association and confirmed his commitment to further strengthening and deepening the relations between Sri Lanka and Viet Nam. He emphasized the Association’s commitment to enhancing mutual understanding, promoting peace, and collaborating on shared goals for the progress of both nations.
Prior to the meeting, Speaker of the Parliament, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne took the opportunity to deliver the official invitation for Nguyen Duc Hai, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly of Viet Nam to visit Sri Lanka.
