The President of the European Union, Radosław Sikorski, agreed to consider establishing a new office in Sri Lanka as a solution to the problems faced by Sri Lankans in obtaining visas for member countries of the European Union. He expressed this agreement in response to the briefing given by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, regarding the difficulties faced by Sri Lankans in obtaining visas, during a meeting held with the Minister.
“A new mechanism to solve the problem of obtaining visas for European Union countries”
Radosław Sikorski, who holds the position of Polish Foreign Minister and the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, arrived at Katunayake International Airport yesterday (28th) morning for a three-day official visit. An official meeting with Vijitha Herath was held at the Ministry yesterday afternoon. Minister Vijitha Herath thanked Poland, the current President of the European Union, for the EU’s decision to continuously provide the GSP+ concession to Sri Lanka and appreciated the European Union’s continuous support for Sri Lanka’s progress. Minister Vijitha Herath pointed out to Radosław Sikorski that the new government has taken steps to amend ordinances in a manner that does not discriminate against any religious, national, or ethnic group.
Radosław Sikorski expressed his satisfaction with the progress made by the new government regarding political stability, protection of human rights, and equal treatment for all nationalities. He also mentioned that the European Union, Sri Lanka’s second-largest export market, will work to further enhance trade relations with Sri Lanka. Furthermore, he assured that the European Union is ready to send investors to Sri Lanka for its economic development, provide necessary technical assistance, and provide financial assistance when needed.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski stated that Sri Lanka has gained attention as an attractive tourist destination for Polish nationals, with over 40,000 tourists currently visiting the country annually. He also informed Minister Vijitha Herath that Poland is ready to further increase employment opportunities in Poland for seasonal workers and increase opportunities for students.”
Ajith Weerasuriya
