9 November 2024 12:00 am Views - 162
The Israeli government has expressed its appreciation for the swift and decisive actions taken by the Government of Sri Lanka to protect Israeli nationals following a suspected attack targeting them in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, according to a statement from the Sri Lankan mission in Tel Aviv.
In an official meeting, Ambassador Aviv Ezra, Deputy Director General and Head of the Asia and Pacific Division at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, met with the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Israel, Nimal Bandara. During the meeting, Ambassador Ezra emphasised that both Israeli nationals and local media had praised the prompt protective measures taken by the Sri Lankan authorities to ensure the safety of Israeli tourists in the country.
In response, Ambassador Bandara provided assurances regarding the ongoing safety of Israeli and other foreign tourists in Sri Lanka.
He stated that the country’s defence forces and intelligence agencies were continuously coordinating efforts to maintain security for all visitors.
He emphasised that Sri Lanka remains a safe destination for international travellers. Additionally, Ambassador Ezra expressed the Israeli Government’s interest in enhancing the agricultural sector in Sri Lanka through the proposed “Agriculture Centre of Excellence”. This initiative is expected to utilise Israeli technology, with financial support from the Government of India under the Trilateral Agreement Development Project between Sri Lanka, India, and Israel. Both sides are hopeful that the centre will be established in Sri Lanka by 2025. Ambassador Bandara also proposed the development of a high-tech, technology-based industry in Sri Lanka as part of a long-term project involving Israeli government support and private investment. The Deputy Director General expressed his interest in further discussions on this initiative in the near future. Head of Bureau of Asia and the Pacific Division Ambassador Sagi Karni, Mr. Saman Ekanayaka, Deputy Head of the Embassy also participated in the event.