Sri Lanka and Ukraine have agreed to expand ongoing cooperation in the sectors related to trade, tourism, and security, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa in Kiev, Ukraine today (30 June).

Addressing the media immediately after meeting with President Victor Yanukovich, President Rajapaksa said that this visit will also give the Sri Lankan delegation an opportunity to experience the unique Ukrainian culture, as well as to observe the advanced technological and industrial achievements of Ukraine.

Responding to a question by a journalist, the President stated that Sri Lanka would invite Ukraine for oil exploration. He added that the Agreements signed today would enhance bilateral cooperation in the future.

He also pointed out that Sri Lanka is now recognized as one of the best destinations for tourism.

Following is the full text of the statement by the President:

Good morning,

Sri Lanka and Ukraine have enjoyed close and friendly bilateral relations with each other. It is my expectation that this visit will further strengthen existing ties. In this occasion I am accompanied by the Minister of External Affairs of Sri Lanka, and my delegation also includes the Ambassador of Sri Lanka accredited to the Ukraine, Senior Officials of the Presidential Secretariat as well as of the Ministry of External Affairs of Sri Lanka.

I have also with me Officials representing the key institutions in Sri Lanka dealing with trade, economic development, investment and tourism as well as Leaders of the business community of Sri Lanka.

I am glad for this opportunity of visiting Kiev which is an extremely beautiful city. Relations between Sri Lanka and Ukraine have a long history. We expect to further strengthen these relations and expand tourism and investment between the two countries.

Furthermore, we expect to take necessary steps to furthering trade relations especially in the tea sector.

During our discussions, I have updated President Yanukovich on the current developments in Sri Lanka. In May last year my Government was successful in ending almost three decades of terrorism in Sri Lanka.

By defeating the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), one of the most ruthless terrorist organizations in the world by launching a humanitarian operation, we have set an example for the world. While fighting the barbaric terrorists we have ensured the protection of civilian lives and their rights, thus setting an example to the world.

Now, all communities in Sri Lanka are enjoying the fruits of freedom. While developing the country we now try to mend the broken hearts of the people.

More than 300,000 people in my country were displaced due to the acts of terrorism of the LTTE. We have speedily provided them with relief and taken steps for their resettlement. Some of the pro- terrorist groups today embark on a disinformation campaign against our country.

We must be united to defeat such conspiracies.
Sri Lanka is now recognized as one of the best destinations for tourism. This morning we have also had the opportunity to sign four Agreements enhancing cooperation in tourism, maritime shipping, and security sectors. Later today, President Yanukovich and I will convene the Ukraine Sri Lanka Business Forum.

During this visit, I will visit the Parliament of Ukraine. I will also meet with the Prime Minister of Ukraine and the Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine.

This visit will also give the Sri Lankan delegation an opportunity to experience the unique Ukrainian culture, as well as to observe the advanced technological and industrial achievements of Ukraine.

There is much scope for further cooperation in the bilateral relations between Ukraine and Sri Lanka. Today Sri Lanka looks forward towards a post-conflict era of stability and progress.

Ukraine too is poised to achieve rapid economic recovery and modernization, based on Ukraine's well-known strengths in the scientific, technological, agricultural and industrial sectors, as well as its vast resources.

I wish the Government and people of Ukraine all success in achieving progress and prosperity. Sri Lanka will strengthen its cooperation and friendship with Ukraine for the mutual benefit of our people.


Responding to a question by a journalist, the President stated that Sri Lanka would invite Ukraine for oil exploration. He added that the Agreements signed today would enhance bilateral cooperation in the future.