Minister of External Affairs Professor G.L. Peiris held a discussion on bilateral relations with Mr. Han Seung –Soo, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea and President of the 56th Session of the United Nations General Assembly at the Ministry of External Affairs.

Minister Peiris said that the grant aid given to Sri Lanka through the Korea International Co-operation Agency (KOICA) had a significant impact on improving infrastructure facilities in rural areas.

He referred in particular to the contribution made by KOICA to such projects as the Korea-Sri Lanka Friendship Hospital in Matara, the rehabilitation of eight schools in the districts of Ampara and Batticaloa, the International Convention Centre in Hambantota, capacity building of local authorities for emergency response in the Kalutara district and the Pilisara programme for solid waste management which is expected to be completed this year.

Mr. Han Seung –Soo expressed satisfaction that Sri Lanka is one of the largest receivers of foreign direct investment from the Republic of Korea. He agreed with Minister Peiris that it is appropriate for the private sector in Korea to utilize the new economic opportunities available in Sri Lanka in such areas as information technology, manufacturing and livestock, and the electronic and rubber sectors.

Prof. Peiris noted that more than 20,000 Sri Lankans are gainfully employed in the Republic of Korea. He appreciated the expansion of employment opportunities for Sri Lankans in Korea.

Minister Peiris briefed Mr. Han Seung-Soo on current developments in Sri Lanka in respect of international relations.

Mr. Jongmoon Choiy, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Sri Lanka, was present at the discussion.

On the following day Prof. Peiris received a delegation of Parliamentarians belonging to the Foreign Relations Committee of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, for an in-depth discussion of political and economic issues.