Asian Century of the World Economy has begun: Foreign Minister

Foreign Relations Minister Dinesh Gunawardane said the Asian Century of the World Economy has begun and the high economic growth rates of the future world are being generated from Asia.   

The minister expressed these views at the commemoration of 35th SAARC Charter Day held in Colombo on Tuesday.   
Minister Gunawardane said Asia has the potential and the fastest growing economy in the world.   
“Accelerated economic activity, commerce and trade take place in Asia. Nobody will contradict this. As we all know, the journey of Asia has begun. That is the world recognised truth,” he said.   

He said establishing close relations with SAARC countries is a key component of Sri Lanka’s foreign policy and since its inception in 1985, SAARC has been a haven for naval relations between our countries.   

“The countries of the SAARC region have mutual respect and confidence towards the sustainable development. The people were promised that Sri Lanka would adopt a non-aligned, impartial, neutral and friendly foreign policy. The President maintains this policy throughout. The President also said that this foreign policy will give more attention and space to our neighbours in the Asian region,” the minister said.   

He declared, “The SAARC Charter is the place where leaders of our countries come together to change the lives of our people.   
“It is worth mentioning that the objectives of the SAARC Charter are to promote peace, prosperity and economic growth for our people and to promote greater understanding and cooperation among our countries.   

Some 35 years have passed since the signing of the SAARC Charter. On one hand, it’s a long time. The ASEAN, created with the participation of our neighbouring Asian countries, is more than 50 years old,” he said.