News Today: Sri Lanka-France Parliamentary Friendship Association elects Minister Paulraj as Chairperson.

Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Saroja Savithri Paulraj, has been elected as the Chairperson of the Sri Lanka-France Parliamentary Friendship Association for the Tenth Parliament. This key appointment was made during the re-establishment meeting held on March 21, 2025, in Parliament, under the patronage of Hon. Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne.

The event was graced by the Charge d’Affaires of the French Embassy in Sri Lanka, Marie-Noelle Duris, who attended as the chief guest. Additionally, Hon. Lal Premanath, Member of Parliament, was appointed as the Secretary of the Association.

Hon. Speaker Dr. Wickramaratne emphasized the significance of the 75-year diplomatic relationship between Sri Lanka and France. He highlighted the Parliamentary Friendship Association’s role in enhancing cooperation in tourism, investment, education, maritime security, and climate change legislation. Strengthening these areas will lead to mutual benefits for both nations.

Marie-Noelle Duris reiterated the importance of the Friendship Association in fostering deeper diplomatic ties. She announced that Hon. Suviyu Buhuva, Chairperson of the French Parliamentary Friendship Association, along with a delegation, is expected to visit Sri Lanka soon for discussions with parliamentary representatives.

Duris also highlighted numerous opportunities for collaboration, particularly in culture, education, tourism, economic development, women’s rights, gender equality, and human rights. She extended her best wishes to the newly elected office bearers and expressed optimism for future partnerships between the two nations.

This new leadership in the Sri Lanka-France Parliamentary Friendship Association is expected to pave the way for stronger diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations.