Japan commends Sri Lanka's post-war achievements, reiterates continued support for development

Commending Sri Lanka's post-war measures to achieve successful reconstruction in the war-affected areas and for reconciliation and protection of human rights, Japan has assured that it will continue to provide all assistance required for the development of the country and strengthen the bilateral relations.
Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida has given this assurance when he met Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa Wednesday at his hotel. Kishida observing that the President's visit will contribute to further strengthen the longtime friendship existing between the two countries, has said that Japan is prepared to develop war affected areas in Sri Lanka and to enhance reconciliation and human safety in the country. The Foreign Minister has expressed his gratitude for the assistance given by Sri Lanka when Japan was affected by the earthquake and a tsunami two years ago.The Sri Lankan President has in return appreciated the assistance provided by the Japanese government when Sri Lanka was severely affected by a similar tsunami disaster in 2004.

He also extended his appreciation to Japan for the assistance given to reconstruct the country after the end of the war, especially noting the modern facilities provided for the new hospital in Jaffna recently upgraded with Japanese funds.

The Japanese parliamentarian and the chairman of the foreign affairs committee Kawai Katsuyuki also met President Mahinda Rajapakse this morning. He told the President that Sri Lanka has achieved a tremendous progress during the last few years under the leadership of the President and President's tour in Japan would further strengthen the friendship and bilateral relations between the two countries.

The representative of the Government of Japan for Peace-Building, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in Sri Lanka Yasushi Akashi also met with President Rajapaksa at a private lunch this afternoon.

Senior Minister A.H.M. Fowzie, Ministers Nimal Siripala de Silva and Prof. G.L. Peiris, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga and Japanese Ambassador in Sri Lanka Nobuhito Hobo were among others who were present at the lunch.

The President is scheduled to meet the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Thursday.

The two leaders are reportedly expected to discuss among others, maritime security cooperation to strengthen its maritime security alliance with Sri Lanka.