Gulf countries laud Government's fight against terrorism

Chaminda Perera

COLOMBO: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on Wednesday lauded the Government's endeavour to eliminate terrorism which has become a threat to the development and the peace in the world.

Addressing the media after meeting Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama at the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute for International Relations and Strategic Studies, GCC Secretary General Abdul Rahaman Bin Hamad Al Attiyah said the GCC firmly stands by the Government's exercise in eradicating terrorism.

He lauded the Government's unwavering and long standing commitment for the Palestinian cause. He said he expects to enhance economic ties between Sri Lanka and the GCC member states in the field of tourism, imports and exports sector.

The Foreign Minister said the Government proposed more and more investments from the GCC member States during the discussion. "We proposed to build up a mechanism of mutual benefit to promote the import and export trade, tourism and people to people contact.

Our energy sources are heavily dependent on petroleum and gas mainly from GCC member States. The GCC could support Sri Lanka's economic efforts by way of co-operating in the energy sector.

The energy sector will be a test for enhanced economic cooperation between the GCC and Sri Lanka", he said.

The Minister has proposed to unearth more potential in the manpower and human resources development sector in GCC member countries and ensure better working condition and upward mobility for expatriate workers.

The Minister said the GCC endorsed the government's proposals during the discussion. The GCC member countries comprise Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE and Qatar. Foreign Ministry Secretary Dr. Palitha Kohona, Director General Middle East and Africa of the Foreign Ministry I Ansar also participated at the discussion.