When Rt Hon Patricia Scotland called on President at the Loews Regency Hotel in New York today (September 28), the President briefed her on the progress made in the last three and half years in reconciliation, strengthening democracy and restoration of human rights.

She said that in his recent visit to Sri Lanka she saw the positive developments taking place on all fronts and congratulated the President and the government. The President invited the Secretary General to pay another visit to Sri Lanka at her convenience.

She said the Commonwealth would continue to extend support to Sri Lanka’s efforts towards development and reconciliation. She said the Commonwealth could assist Sri Lanka to enhance negotiating skills on bilateral trade and investment negotiations under the proposed Commonwealth Best Practices Framework.

President Sirisena said Sri Lanka considered eradication of illegal drugs and climate change as major challenges and asked the Commonwealth to expand activities in these areas as they would benefit most of the 57 member states.

Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana, Permanent Representative to UN, Dr Amrith Rohan Perera and two senior Commonwealth officials were present during this discussion.