Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama asked the Honorary Consuls in Sri Lanka to serve as good “conduits” and “channels” in addressing issues concerning Sri Lanka with the countries of their representation, during an interaction with 31 Honorary Consuls, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs yesterday, Sep. 16.

The Foreign Minister outlined the importance of dispelling some misconceptions about Sri Lanka which was prevailing among some sections of the international community and urged the Honorary Consuls to play a proactive role in explaining the post conflict developments that are currently underway.

He also called on the Honorary Consuls to work towards promoting investment, tourism and obtaining assistance for development from the countries they represent. In this context, Minister stressed on the need to invite the leaders of the countries represented by the Honorary Consuls to visit Sri Lanka, including High Commissioners and Ambassadors, to obtain first hand information on the post conflict developments.

Minister also explained the various measures taken by the Government of Sri Lanka on the issues pertaining to the fake video telecast on Channel-4 and the GSP+ scheme.

He further stated that there was a need for roofing material, permanent shelters and water pumps for the IDPs, in addition to assistance with de-mining, in order to expedite the resettlement of the IDPs in their native areas.

Senior Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were associated with this interaction.