Lanka-Israeli talks focus on investments, tourism

Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka during his visit to the Middle East called on President Shimon Peres and President Mahmoud Abbas of Israel and Palestine.

Premier Wickramanayaka held discussions with the Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. The two leaders discussed developments in bilateral relations since the resumption of diplomatic relations. They agreed that there was potential for further cooperation in areas such as investment and tourism. An agreement on cooperation in areas such as culture, education and science was signed.

The Prime Minister addressed a seminar on Business and Investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, organised by Israeli Chamber of Commerce and Industries in Tel Aviv. The seminar was followed by several one on one business meetings during which several Israeli companies expressed interest in investing in Sri Lanka and promoting tourism. The Prime Minister also addressed the Israeli Council on Foreign Relations on the current situation in Sri Lanka.

During his visit to Palestine he laid a wreath at the memorial of the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat before holding talks with President Mahmoud Abbas. The Palestinian leader told the Prime Minister that President Mahinda Rajapaksa is held in high esteem by the Palestinian people who have named a street in Ramallah after him.

President Abbas briefed the Prime Minister on the latest developments in the Middle East peace process.