Sri Lanka deeply appreciates French development assistance – Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva

“Sri Lanka deeply cherishes its longstanding ties of friendship and cooperation with France and in recent times, we have seen a heightened level of engagement between Sri Lanka and France in political, economic and maritime realms,” says Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva. He made these statements at a ceremony held on July 13, 2023 to mark the French National Day, in Colombo.

Historical connections between Sri Lanka and France that date back to the 17th Century were strengthened and consolidated with the establishment of formal diplomatic relations on October 27, 1948. This year holds significance to both countries as the two countries celebrate the 75th anniversary of Sri Lanka – France diplomatic relations.

“At present, both our Governments share an abiding commitment to transform this cooperation into a multifaceted partnership. Therefore, I take this opportunity to convey Sri Lanka’s deep appreciation to the French Government for playing a pivotal supporting role in our way forward for economic stabilization, recovery and growth, and particularly in securing the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) from the IMF in its capacity as the Chair of the Paris Club,” the Minister said.

He also emphasized that bilateral trade and investment between the two countries had much potential for expansion.

France was the 10th export destination for Sri Lanka in 2022, with total exports recorded at USD 257 Mn. France is one of Sri Lanka’s important tourism source markets and is also the second largest provider of grant assistance to Sri Lanka that has become a major partner in Sri Lanka’s development process.

“I firmly believe that our economic relations will continue to strengthen in the years ahead and I hope more French companies would consider setting up their businesses in Sri Lanka to tap into the vast South Asian market and beyond.

Sri Lanka deeply appreciates French development assistance, received mainly through the AFD (Agence Francaise de Development) which supports infrastructure development, energy, water and sanitation projects, blue economy, disaster management and entrepreneurship in the country,” the Minister said.

Speaking further, the Minister had this to say;

“Our bilateral maritime cooperation has continued to flourish over the recent years. The proposed establishment of a Regional Maritime Safety and Security School in Sri Lanka, France’s confirmed participation in the Galle Dialogue to be convened later this year are evidence of the current robust partnership that we share in the maritime sector. As France is a member country of the IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation), Sri Lanka wishes to engage more closely with France during Sri Lanka’s chairmanship of IORA from 2023 to 2025.

I take this opportunity to reaffirm Sri Lanka’s commitment to build further on the friendship and cooperation between our two countries. I am confident that together with the efforts of Ambassador Jean Francois Pactet and his staff, we would succeed in strengthening our excellent bilateral relations and taking it to the next step forward.”

French influence in Sri Lanka is reflected in art, music, architecture, literature, cinema, radio broadcasting and particularly in education. The French missionaries’ contribution to the education system of Sri Lanka especially in the establishment of several leading Catholic schools in the country is noteworthy. The French language is sought after in High School and University curricula here, as well. The Alliance Francaise which continues its vibrant presence in Sri Lanka with branches in Kandy, Galle, Matara and Jaffna has for several decades contributed to the enhancement of the French culture in the country particularly with the younger generation.

An additional dimension of Sri Lanka’s bilateral relations with France is the overseas community of Sri Lankan heritage now residing in France. This community while contributing productively to the French economy has been a strong element in strengthening people to people interactions. The number of students studying in French Universities also continues to rise.

To mark the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Sri Lanka – France diplomatic relations in a fitting manner, a commemorative stamp along with the convening of inaugural bilateral political consultations will also be issued jointly. A series of cultural engagements will also be held to celebrate the abiding friendship between the two nations.