• He appreciates Saudi Arabia for providing employment opportunities for a large number of Sri Lankans

By Kelum Bandara   

Newly appointed Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath said, in his first public function on Tuesday, requested Saudi Arabia to be a strong partner in the development process of Sri Lanka by investing especially in the tourism sector and Dedicated Pharmaceutical Zone in Hambantota, IT Parks, Fabric Park in Batticaloa, Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port.  

Making his remarks to mark the national day of Saudi Arabia, the Minister said he appreciates that Saudi Arabia continuously supports Sri Lanka at the UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council).  

“Reflecting the very solid bilateral relations, I am pleased to note that the Government of Saudi Arabia has extended its support to the debt restructuring process of Sri Lanka. Also I wish to place on record our appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s loan disbursement for projects that are funded by the Saudi Fund for Development, since 1981, including 13 projects in water, energy, health, roads, and education, on concessionary terms. The development of the Peradeniya-Badulla-Chenkaladi Road Project, Wayamba University Township Development Project, Epilepsy Hospital and Health Centers Project and Left Bank Development Project in Kalu Ganga are among the development projects funded by the Saudi Fund for Development, that have made an invaluable contribution to uplifting the lives of people in Sri Lanka,” he said.   

He said he appreciates Saudi Arabia for providing employment opportunities for a large number of Sri Lankans. Currently, there are approximately 200,000 Sri Lankan migrant workers who work in the Kingdom. The two countries have recently entered into an Agreement on Skill Verification, which allows skilled and semi-skilled workers from Sri Lanka to find employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia.   

He also said Sri Lanka has announced visa free access for citizens of 35 countries, including Saudi Arabia, from October 01, 2024.   

“This visa-free facility will be valid for 6 months stay for tourism purposes. Hence, I take this opportunity to invite our Saudi Arabian friends to visit Sri Lanka and experience its ancient history, rich culture and natural beauty,” he said.