Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra held bilateral discussions with Republic of Korea Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Eui-Hae Cecilia Chung in Seoul on 25 February, during his official visit to South Korea.

The meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seoul, where both sides discussed avenues to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between Sri Lanka and the Republic of Korea.

Discussions focused on deepening economic cooperation in line with Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery process, including progress in debt restructuring. The two sides also explored expanding foreign employment opportunities for Sri Lankans, enhancing development cooperation, and strengthening defence collaboration.

The Deputy Minister expressed appreciation for the timely assistance extended by the Republic of Korea to Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah and requested continued support for national rebuilding initiatives.

He also underscored the growing social and cultural ties between the two countries, particularly the increasing engagement of Sri Lankan youth with Korean culture, noting that such exchanges contribute to strengthening people-to-people relations.

With the two countries set to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year, both sides agreed to appropriately commemorate the milestone, including through high-level visits and enhanced institutional engagement.

The discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment of Sri Lanka and the Republic of Korea to further strengthen their partnership in the years ahead.