(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tharaka Balasuriya addressing the 4th Ministerial Meeting of Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum in Bali, Indonesia from 5-6 December, 2022 emphasized the significance and vitality of establishing a concrete mechanism to respond swiftly to the marine related disasters and assist to post-disasters recovery.
The State Minister further stressed that Sri Lanka is committed to its commitments of the agenda of AIS Forum and effectively collaborates and coordinates with the AIS Member States to achieve collective goals set up by the Forum.
He also highlighted the investment opportunities available within the AIS Forum States and to create an investment friendly environment to attract investment to the respective member states.
Minister Balasuriya on the sidelines of the AIS Forum conducted constructive bilateral meetings with Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs of Indonesia Luhut B. Pandjaitan and Minister of Defence of Madagascar Rakotonirina Jean Richard, as well as met with Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Papua New Guinea and Timor Leste respectively. Further, Minister attended a side event, titled ‘Blue Innovation Solution Conference and Local Champions for Ocean Protection’ to share his thoughts, efforts and leadership of Sri Lanka towards protection and restoration of marine resources.
