Meeting to strengthen Lanka, Iran trade

An Iranian Trade delegation led by the Minister of Trade of Iran called on Minister of Export Development and International Trade Prof. G. L. Peiris recently. Strengthening bi-lateral trade between the two countries was the main focus of the meeting.

The removal of sanctions on the import of Sri Lankan tea to Iran, creating space for Sri Lankan fruits and vegetable exports in Iran and the repair of Iranian naval craft in Sri Lanka were also discussed.

Minister of Trade and Consumer Affairs Bandula Gunewardene, office-bearers of the Chambers of Commerce and leading exporters and producers of fruits and vegetables took part in the discussion.

Prof. Peiris thanked the Iranians for the US $1.5 billion offered by them for the 'Uma Oya' project and other development work. An invitation was extended by the Iranians to the Chambers of Commerce and other exporters to send a trade delegation to Iran to explore the trade and export potential there.

Secretary to the Ministry of Export Development, S. Ranugge Director-General, Department of Commerce Manel de Silva and other senior Government officials involved in exports and trade were also present.