Lanka on fast track to reconciliation: Envoy

Chennai: Sri Lankan deputy high commissioner Vadivel Krishnamoorthy said the Maithripala Sirisena government continues to strengthen the socio-economic development process in the island nation. He was speaking on the occasion of the 66th Sri Lankan National Day in the city on Friday. The government was also making fast progress on national reconciliation, he said.
The envoy underscored that Sri Lanka is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country where people have lived peacefully for thousands of years. He expressed his gratitude to Sri Lankan establishments and the expatriate community in Southern India for their exemplary services that have continued to contribute towards the economic and social development of the country strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries.
Krishnamoorthy said his government remains focused on addressing a broad range of issues related to post-conflict Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is currently on the path of achieving national reconciliation for the ever-lasting peace, a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country. Sri Lanka wishes to acknowledge for the support, understanding, solidarity and friendship extended by the international community towards this endeavor.
"Our bilateral relations with India are based on mutual trust and common desire to develop diversified bonds. In recent years, the relationship has been marked by close contacts at the highest political level, growing trade and investment, cooperation in the fields of development, education, culture and defence, as well as a broad understanding on major issues of international interest. We maintain an active and frank political dialogue with India on vital international and regional issues. An example of this is the current visit of minister of external affairs Sushma Swaraj to Colombo,, where she has discussed a wide range of issues," Krishnamoorthy said.
He said the number of Indian companies opening offices in Lanka is increasing. There is a rising trend of Lankan investments in India as well. The Government of India is one of the leading partners of Sri Lanka in development assistance by helping out in railway, housing and energy. Later in the evening, the envoy hosted a reception for diplomats and well-wishers.