BY AJITH SIRIWARDANA
Colombo : Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand, Winston Peters held discussions with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake this afternoon where he announced that the New Zealand government remains committed to deepening its financial support in the future.
The meeting took place this afternoon at the Presidential Secretariat during Peters’ official visit to Sri Lanka.
Conveying greetings on behalf of the Government and the people of New Zealand, Peters congratulated President Dissanayake on his victory in both the Presidential and General Elections, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said.
“He reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between the two nations and acknowledged the recent re-establishment of diplomatic relations. Deputy Prime Minister Peters expressed the Government of New Zealand’s strong appreciation for the positive developments taking place in Sri Lanka following the recent Presidential and General
election victories.
He acknowledged the significant steps taken by the new administration towards political stability, economic recovery and social progress, and commended the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in steering the country in the right direction.
Peters further emphasised that New Zealand recognises Sri Lanka’s current trajectory as a promising foundation for sustainable growth and long-term development.
In this context, he announced that the New Zealand government remains committed to deepening its financial support in the future, a statement issued by the PMD said.
President Dissanayake noted that Deputy Prime Minister Peters’ visit marks the beginning of a new chapter in Sri Lanka–New Zealand relations. The President briefed Peters on Sri Lanka’s progress in economic, social and political stabilisation following the recent elections.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to further strengthen these areas to ensure long-term national development.
The President also highlighted the importance of reconciliation, noting that long-standing divisions among the people had led to prolonged conflict. He stated that his government is prioritising peace-building and national unity as key pillars of the reconciliation process.
The PMD said discussions also explored opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation in key sectors such as agriculture, education and tourism. Both parties expressed their commitment to working closely to advance these areas of mutual interest.