News Today: New Zealand Deputy PM meets President of Sri Lanka

A high-level diplomatic meeting took place at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday between New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Deputy Prime Minister Peters is currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka.

He conveyed greetings on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand and congratulated President Dissanayake on his recent victories in both the Presidential and General Elections. Peters reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties and applauded the recent re-establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Deputy Prime Minister Peters acknowledged Sri Lanka’s strides in political stability, economic recovery, and social progress under the new leadership. He recognized these developments as vital indicators of the country’s promising trajectory and affirmed New Zealand’s commitment to expanding financial and diplomatic support.

President Dissanayake welcomed the Deputy Prime Minister’s visit as a significant step in renewing and enhancing Sri Lanka–New Zealand relations. He updated Mr. Peters on ongoing progress in governance and emphasized the Government’s plans for sustained national development.

A key highlight of the discussion was reconciliation. President Dissanayake stressed the importance of peace-building and national unity, noting that healing past divisions is essential for long-term harmony.

Both leaders explored opportunities for deeper cooperation in agriculture, education, and tourism—sectors with high potential for mutual growth.

Labour Minister and Economic Development Deputy Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando and Senior Additional Secretary to the President, Roshan Gamage, also participated in the meeting.

This pivotal engagement signals renewed momentum in bilateral ties, emphasizing sustainable development and people-to-people connections.