COLOMBO: Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry extended a warm and cordial welcome to the visiting Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and said : “ As we welcome His Excellency, President Dr. Ibrahim Raisi of Iran, along with a distinguished delegation to our shores, it is with great pride and honor that we celebrate the enduring friendship and fruitful collaboration between Sri Lanka and Iran.
Our nations share a rich history of partnership across economic, commercial, cultural, and educational spheres, a testament to the deep-rooted ties that bind our two countries. Through mutual support and cooperation, we have stood side by side, extending help and solidarity in times of need, bridging distances with shared values and shared goals.
Today marks a momentous occasion as we inaugurate the Oma Oya multi-purpose development project, a symbol of our joint commitment to progress and prosperity. With an investment exceeding 500 million US dollars, this project stands as a shining example of our collective efforts to harness our resources for the betterment of our people and the region at large.
While challenges may arise, our resolve to stand for each other’s sovereignty and well-being remains unwavering. Iran has been a steadfast ally, supporting Sri Lanka in various endeavors, including on the international stage. We are grateful for the support extended by Iran, from being a key supplier of oil in the past to the recent enhancement in purchasing Sri Lankan tea, illustrating the depth of our economic ties.
As we look to the future, let us reaffirm our commitment to nurturing and expanding our bilateral relations, exploring new horizons of cooperation, and fostering greater understanding and friendship between our peoples. Together, we can achieve great things and build a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.
I extend a warm welcome to President Dr. Ibrahim Raisi and his delegation, and I am confident that this visit will further elevate the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations to new heights.”
