Delivering the Chief Guest’s speech at the UN Day for Solidarity with Palestine held at Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute Auditorium, Mr. Jayasuriya said that collaboration between these two countries includes mutual support in international fora, especially in the context of Sri Lanka’s focus on strengthening bilateral relations with the Arab world. Stronger links between two countries, in the areas of economic, political consultations, and technical co-operation and the training of primary education teachers.

The Speaker further added that friendly relations between Palestine and Sri Lanka commenced in early seventies and the solidarity with Palestine was strengthened although there were numerous threats and barriers and the Opening of the PLO embassy in Colombo in July 1975 was a significant milestone in this respect and Palestine was supported by Sri Lanka and continues to be a strong advocate for the Palestinian cause.