Issuing a statement to the media at the end of his visit to Sri Lanka, the Secretary-General said the Commonwealth has agreed to pursue a partnership and enhance collaboration with Sri Lanka in various priority areas.

The Commonwealth adds value globally in its work in democracy, development and diversity. We can expect the 2013 Heads of Government Meeting to have a focus on inclusive growth and development opportunities, he said.

The goal of the Commonwealth’s partnership is to support Sri Lanka’s national efforts and plans to provide access for all its citizens to a life of opportunity and dignity, the Secretary-General said.

The Commonwealth remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka in continuing to strengthen its culture of democracy, pluralism, human rights, sustainable development, the rule of law, and other fundamental Commonwealth values and principles, he further said.

During his four-day visit the Secretary-General met with President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa, Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremasinghe, Minister of External Affairs Professor G L Peiris, Monitoring Member of Parliament for the Ministry of External Affairs Sajin de Vass Gunawardena and the Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga.