Investors and entrepreneurs from both countries attended this Investment Forum and attention was drawn regarding further strengthening the economic ties between the two countries.

At this Forum the President said that there are many investment opportunities in Sri Lanka and he invited the Japanese investors to get benefit from Sri Lanka's investment opportunities.

Addressing the investors the Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Malik Samarawickrama said that for many decades, Sri Lanka is working closely with Japan in various fields and hope this tour of President Sirisena will pave the way to further consolidate those ties between the two countries.

Japan's Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Mr. Masaki Ogushi also participated in this Forum.

The Chairman and CEO of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Hiroyuki Ishige meeting with President Sirisena apprised him of the trade and investment services of JETRO in Sri Lanka and said that they expect to further expand those activities in the country.

The president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Shinichi Kitaoka also met with President Sirisena. During this meeting the functioning and the progress of the development projects being carried out in Sri Lankan with the assistance of the JICA were discussed at length.

Expressing his views, the President said that the policy of his government is to give a prominent place for the local industries while obtaining foreign assistance. The President requested the President of JICA to assist in projects which can inspire the people as a country to stand on their own feet. He also said that