“Even though it took time, we are happy we were able to establish diplomatic ties with Bahrain,” President Rajapaksa said when he took the opportunity to speak briefly to those who had gathered. He added that because of the opening of the Embassy, “the cooperation between the two countries has increased,” and the Government has been able to better serve the Sri Lankans living in this Middle Eastern country.

The President told the audience about the high regard that the King of Bahrain His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa held the Sri Lankan community in Bahrain and the positive comments he made during the bilateral discussions about the contribution of Sri Lankans in Bahrain to this country’s economy as well. President Rajapaksa told the audience that when he was presented with the prestigious Khalifa Medal yesterday, “I felt it wasn’t for me but for the country [Sri Lanka] and all of you,” for which the audience erupted with applause.

While encouraging each person to positively represent Sri Lanka, the President also requested the Sri Lankan community in Bahrain not to fall prey to misinformation. President Rajapaksa said the portrayal that there is religious tension in Sri Lanka, that some are trying to create, is inaccurate. He reassured the audience that he would not allow for any type of religious conflict in Sri Lanka to raise its head.

Minister of External Affairs Prof. G. L. Peiris, Minister of Industry and Commerce Mr. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Foreign Employment Promotion and Welfare Mr. Dilan Perera, Deputy Minister of Labor and Labor Relations Mr. Sarath Weerasekara, Provincial Council Member Mr. Nauzer Fowzi, Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga and Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Bahrain Mr. Anura Rajakaruna were present at the event.