President Dissanayake Meets Emperor of Japan and JICA Chief

COLOMBO (News 1st) - President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, during his official visit to Japan at the invitation of the Japanese government, met with the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Dr. Tanaka Akihiko in Tokyo yesterday, and held a discussion.

The President expressed his gratitude for the continued support provided by Japan to Sri Lanka by initiating the resumption of concessional yen loans through JICA, which is making a significant contribution to national development.

The JICA President highlighted the importance of developing the private sector, industry and agriculture as key drivers of Sri Lanka’s sustainable economic progress.

Dr. Tanaka Akihiko stated that the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) project in Katunayake will be resumed soon and that he hopes to continue the long-term cooperation with Sri Lanka by monitoring Sri Lanka's macroeconomic management.

The implementation of the Waste Management Plan in the Western Province was also discussed.

The Sri Lankan representatives requested support for the development of Sri Lanka's digital economy, including facilities for research on the use of artificial intelligence and an AI Neutral Centre.

A Grant Agreement was also signed on the occasion, marking a new milestone in Japan-Sri Lanka development cooperation, for the Project for the Enhancement of Productivity in the Dairy Sector.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath and a group of other officials participated in this event.

Meanwhile President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also visited the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, where he met with Emperor Naruhito of Japan, and engaged in a cordial conversation.