The new envoys who presented their letters of credence were

Mr.Aram B Cisneros Naylor – Ambassador of the Republic of Panama

Mr.Alexander A.Karchava– Ambassador of the Russian Federation

Mr.Harimawan Suyitno – Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia

Mr. Mohammad Sufiur Rahman – High Commissioner for the People’s Republic of Bangladesh

Welcoming new envoys to the credential ceremony President Rajapaksa said that they are all joining their assignments at a crucial time when Sri Lanka’s economy is at a rapid growth after eliminating thirty years of brutal terrorism. The Government’s rehabilitation, reconciliation, resettlement, reconstruction and development process have achieved a huge amount of progress within short period of time. The President also said Sri Lanka seeks to work with the international community and requested their support to rebuild post war Sri Lanka, which would create an environment for the progress and prosperity of people.

The new envoys pledged to work diligently to strengthen bi-lateral relations as well as their goodwill and assistance for government’s development projects. After the presentation of credentials, the new diplomats signed the VIP visitors’ book.

The credential presentation ceremony was attended by the Deputy Minister of External Affairs, Neomal Perera, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs Karunaratne Amunugama and senior officers representing Sri Lanka Security Forces. Chief of Protocol of the Ministry, senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs and officials of the respective Embassies and the High Commission were also present at the occasion.

Photos by Sudath Silva