TEHRAN - In a diplomatic development, the Iranian minister of foreign affairs arrived in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo and engaged in discussions with senior officials regarding enhancing political, economic, scientific, technical, and technological exchanges between the two nations.

Upon his arrival, Hossein Amir Abdollahian was welcomed by Sri Lanka’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Tharaka Balasuriya.

As the first part of this diplomatic visit, Amir Abdollahian engaged in discussions with his Sri Lankan counterpart Ali Sabry.

During their meeting, Amir Abdollahian, recognizing the robust and amicable relations between the two nations, highlighted the ongoing consultations on diverse issues. He expressed optimism that the visit would significantly bolster relations between the two countries in various spheres, including politics, economics, trade, and tourism. 

Commending Sri Lanka's steadfast support for the people of Palestine and Gaza on international platforms, including the United Nations, Amir Abdollahian underscored the significance of such solidarity.

The Sri Lankan foreign minister, for his part, commended the Iranian nation's power and resilience despite numerous acts of hostility. 

Emphasizing the strong relations and shared values between the two nations, Ali Sabry referred to Sri Lanka's economic transition and growth. He expressed hope for a more robust expansion of bilateral relations in the new era.

The minister of foreign affairs of Sri Lanka highlighted Iran's industrial and economic capabilities, expressing his country's readiness for the implementation of economic projects by Iran in Sri Lanka.

Cooperation in the tourism sector took center stage in the discussions between the two top diplomats, with both sides expressing optimism that Iranian and Sri Lankan tourists would increasingly choose each other's countries as preferred destinations. They underscored the importance of establishing direct flights between the two nations to facilitate such exchanges. 

The ministers also emphasized mutual interest in fostering scientific and technological collaboration.

Amir Abdollahian conveyed gratitude for the invitation extended by the President of Sri Lanka to Ebrahim Raisi, the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, expressing hope for the scheduling of this visit at an opportune time.

Sri Lankan foreign minister had traveled to Tehran in August 2023.

Furthermore, Iran's minister of foreign affairs met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena to further discuss the potential for bilateral cooperation between the two nations.