Germany, Sri Lanka to boost development cooperation, economic ties

Leaders of Germany and Sri Lanka have agreed on Wednesday to strengthen development cooperation and economic ties between the two sides.

Addressing a joint press conference with visiting Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Germany and Sri Lanka would further intensify their development cooperation.

Noting that Sri Lanka is a popular holiday destination for German people, the chancellor told reporters that the two countries would work on cooperation possibilities in vocational training, particularly of hotel staff.

Besides, the two sides will also strengthen their economic relations. According to Merkel, a German economic delegation is going to visit Sri Lanka.

"We are seeking to promote the German-Sri Lankan cooperation in various areas, including energy, industrial production, hydroelectric plants and renewable energy," she said.

For his part, Sirisena said the Sri Lankan government was making efforts to identify new opportunities for diversifying the longstanding relationship and cooperation with Germany.

He also invited German investors to make the most of the opportunities of economic cooperation between the two countries, especially in the field of joint ventures.

Sirisena was in Berlin for an official visit to Germany. It is the first time in 43 years that a Sri Lankan Head of State has visited the country. Endit