The Prime Minister was speaking at a special ceremony held in his honour at the Parliamentary Complex by Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa and Parliamentary members on Sunday (07).

Prime Minister Abe, while recognizing the progress made so far on infrastructure, reconciliation and rehabilitation,  assured that Japan would continue to support Sri Lankan efforts towards a national reconciliation while acceleating its development process.

Prime Minister Abe said that he is really grateful for the assistance rendered by the Government and the people of Sri Lanka  when Japan was hit by the Tsunami in 2011  He also said that he is also proud of the role Japan played in constructing the Parliamentary Complex designed by the great Sri Lankan Architect Geoffrey Bawa.

An agreement was signed on the renovation of the Parliamentary Complex between Parliamentary General Secretary Dhammika Dasanayake and the Sumitomo Mitsui Construction Co Ltd CEO Yoshiyuhi Norihisa.

Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa said the visit is a historic and significant moment as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe becomes the first Japanese PM to visit Sri Lanka in 24 years.  He added that Japan and Sri Lanka have maintained a close and friendly relationship that reaffirms the strong bonds of friendship through generations.

“Finally, the Speaker said Sri Lanka looks forward to further strengthen the strong bonds between Japan and Sri Lanka.

Chief Opposition Whip John Amaratunga and Leader of the House and Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva  delivered Vote of thanks.

Prime Minister D.M.Jayarathna and All  public representatives presided over the event.(KH)