President Wreath laying to the Monument of the Defenders of the Motherland
21st November 2012
In the morning of the 3rd and final day of his State visit to Kazakhstan, President Rajapaksa paid a visit to the Monument of the Defenders of the Motherland in the city of Astana. The Sri Lankan Leader was welcomed to the Monument of the Defenders of the Motherland by the Mayor of the city of Astana. The President honored the fallen heroes of the Republic of Kazakhstan by laying a wreath at the foot of the monument.
First Ever Sri Lanka Tourism Forum Held in Kazakhstan
21st November 2012
Coinciding with the state visit of H.E. Mahinda Rajapaksa the President of Sri Lanka to the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Sri Lanka Embassy in the Russian Federation in collaboration with Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, National Tourism Agency of Kazakhstan, major tour companies Gulnar Tour, TEZ Tour (Astana) and Travel System organized the Sri Lanka Tourism Forum in the scenic city of Astana. The event which is a first of its kind to be held in Kazakhstan was organized with the view of capturing a share of the country’s growing outbound tourism market.
Participating in the event were the key stakeholders of the Kazakhstan tourism industry including many of the leading tour agents and tour operators and top hoteliers from Sri Lanka.
Opening the event with his welcome speech Sri Lanka’s Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris explained about the vividness of the Sri Lankan culture and how it enriches the tourism appeal of the island.
Officials Representing the Ministry of Tourism of Kazakhstan also made remarks regarding their willingness in partnering with Sri Lanka in enhancing two way tourism.
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation who is concurrently accredited to the republic of Kazakhstan H.E. Udayanga Weerathunga made a breathtaking presentation in fluent Russian on the theme “Refreshingly Sri Lanka – Wonder Island” which captivated the hearts of the Kazakhstan audience. The Ambassador explained in detail of the most popular tourist excursions as well as the new but emerging destinations in the country. Several Sri Lankan hoteliers and tour operators also made introductions on their hotels and services.
Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka from Russia and Eastern European countries have increased significantly during the past few years. As a direct result of the many tourist promotion programs conducted by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Russia, the number of CIS region tourists visiting the country this year is expected to surpass 70,000. A similar tourism promotion event was organized in 2010 in Kiev parallel to H.E the President’s visit to Ukraine.
Courtesy Call by Mr. Serik Ahmetov, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan
20th November 2012
Hon Prime Minister, congratulations on your appointment this year as Prime Minister. I look forward to close engagement with you and in this context, your participation at the Business Forum is appreciated. There is much potential to expand our countries’ bilateral economic ties, which I believe the Business Forum will facilitate and be a fitting beginning to this end. Since the end of this conflict, Sri Lanka has recorded impressive economic development. Whilst my Government has focused on the development of infrastructure and improvement of the livelihoods particularly of the conflict affected people, the stable and peaceful environment in all parts of the country has resulted in the flow of more foreign direct investment, increased trade and a significant growth in the tourism industry.
In the last few years, we have sustained 7% – 8% annual growth rate and the economy of the former theatre of conflict, particularly the Northern Province grew last year by 22%. As you have been yourself the Director General of the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange, you will be pleased to learn that the Colombo Stock Exchange has in the last few years been one of the best performing stock markets. Investors are looking very favourably at our capital market and there has been an unprecedented overseas investment in government securities which I believe is a very significant indicator of the confidence reposed in our economic performance.
Prime Minister, you and I will jointly chair the Business Forum. I have brought with me a very high level delegation from our business community and most of them have a very strong interest in looking for opportunities to enter into joint ventures and seeking prospects for export to your market. The balance of trade is currently in Sri Lanka’s favour and I am positive that your business community will also want to explore opportunities for investment in and export to my country. I have learnt that you have a very large cotton industry. As a leading exporter of ready-made garments, we are very interested in possible joint ventures for the production of export quality textiles. Also both our countries have a well developed tourism industry and I believe there is much scope for collaboration in this area, particularly for tourism infrastructure development. Sri Lanka has highly skilled hoteliers for whom there may be employment opportunities in your hotel industry. With the commencement of direct charter flights between Colombo and Almaty, we expect increasing tourist arrivals from your country to Sri Lanka. I have no doubt that my country has a very rich and new experience to offer Kazakhstan tourists. It is my sincere hope that investors from your country will also look at the prospects for investment in our tourism and leisure sector. Prime Minister, I believe there is considerable scope for cooperation in the areas of power and energy and I look forward to your response in this regard. I am confident that you will support our endeavours to strengthen and further enhance our bilateral ties and encourage people-to-people contacts as a means of building long lasting friendship between our two countries. I hope that you will consider visiting Sri Lanka with a view to further cementing the ties between our two countries.
President courtesy call by Mr. K.A. Mami, Chairman of the Senate, Upper House of the Kazakhstan Parliament.
I am pleased to have the opportunity to meet with you. Having spent over 40 years of my life as a Member of Parliament, I attach importance to the role of Parliament in strengthening democracy and giving voice to the expectations and aspirations of the people. I am very keen that Parliamentary Friendship Associations be established in our two Parliaments and exchange visits by Parliamentary delegations, facilitation of which may be considered. I seek your assistance to facilitate these visits. As you are aware, the legislature of Sri Lanka has a history of over 60 years and we would be extremely happy to cooperate with your Parliament sharing of information on Parliamentary procedures. I appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and visit the Senate.
Participants:
Hon. Prof. G.L.Peris – Minister of External Affairs, Hon. Shasheendra Rajapaksa – Chief Minister of Uva Province, Mr. Lalith Weeratunga – Secretary to President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Mr. Udayanga Weeratunga – Ambassador of Sri Lanka, Mrs. Kshenuka Seneviratne – Addl. Secretary, MEA, Dr. Nalaka Godahewa, Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission, Mr. Janaka Rathnayake, Chairman, Export Development Board, Mr. Bashwara Senanka Gunarathna, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism, Mr. Majintha Jayasinghe – Chief of Protocol, Mr. A.S. Khan – Director General, MEA, Ms Dayani Mendis – Director-Europe, MEA
President Nurzultan Nazerbayev warmly welcomed President Rajapaksa
20th November 2012
The second day marked the highest point of the visit when President Mahinada Rajapaksa met with H.E. Nurzultan Nazerbayev the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Presdent Rajapaksa was escorted to the official residence of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan”Akkorda” with a Guarded Motorcade. Upon arrival in front of the palace, the Kazakhstan leader warmly welcomed President Rajapaksa. National songs of both the countries were sung after which the two leaders inspected the special military parade conducted by the Belarus defense forces in honor of the visiting head of the state.
The leading Kazakhstan officials were introduced to the Sri Lankan President by the Kazakhstan President while President Rajapaksa introduced the Sri Lankan delegation to the Kazakhstan leader. The two leaders held one to one discussions at the official residence of the Kazakhstan. Matters relating politics, economy and culture were keenly discussed. The Sri Lankan leader praised the people-centric leadership of President Nazarbayev which has led to the unprecedented growth and prosperity of Kazakhstan since independence. The President also briefed the President Nazarbayev on the developments in Sri Lanka including the massive development drive and the process of resettlement in the North and East. President Nazarbayev reiterated his countries unconditional support towards Sri Lanka in every frontier.
Thereafter extended discussions were held with leading officials of the Kazakhstan and Sri Lanka. Various matters of importance were discussed during the meeting. Subsequent to the bilateral meeting the two countries signed agreement between the Government on Cooperation in the Field of Tourism in view of further enhancing the existing bilateral relations.
The signing ceremony was followed by a joint declaration where both the leaders made statements. The press conference was covered by all the leading news agencies in the Belarus as well as several media teams from Sri Lanka. Official working breakfast hosted by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan in honor of the President of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Business Forum Held in Astana Attracts Wide Attention
20th November 2012
Business-Forum with the participation of the President of Sri Lanka and the Prime-Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Chamber of Commerce Greeted by Mr. Susantha Rathnayake- President of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) and Mr. Sabr S. Yessimbekov- President of the Kazakhstan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Participants of Business Delegation:
1. Mr. Susantha Ratnayake-Chairman,John Keells Holdings 2. Mr. Harry Jayawardane-Chairman, Aitken Spence Hotels and Travels 3. Mr. Dhammika Perera-Chairman, Fortress Hotels, Sri Lanka 4. Mr. Hiran Cooray, Chairman, Jetwing Groups 5. Mr. Kosala Wickramanayake- Chairman Kosala Services (Pvt) Ltd 6. Mr. W.K.H. Wegapitiya -Chairman, Laugfs Holdings Limited 7. Ms. Angeline Ondaatjie -Managing Director, Tangerine Tours and Hotels, 8. Mr. Andre Fernando- Chairman/Managing Director, MAC Holdings (Pvt) Ltd. 9. Mr. Samantha S.W. Kumarasinghe -Chairman/Managing Director, Nature’s Beauty Creations Ltd. 10. Ms. Chandani Dias Abeygunawardene -Director International Marketing, Cargills Quality Foods Ltd 11. Mr. Nimal Perera -Chairman, Pan Asia Bank 12. Mr. Harsha De Saram -Chairman,Uga Escapes (Pvt) Ltd 13. Mr. Abbas Esufally -Chairman, Serendib Leisure 14. Mr. Wasantha Leelananda -Vice President, Walker Tours Ltd 15. Mr. Mukthar Marikkar -Managing Director, Frostaire Industries (Pvt) Ltd. 16. Mr. Suren Madanayake -Managing Director, ACL Cables PLC 17. Mr. Gamini Abeywickrama -Chairman, Basilur Tea Export (Pvt) Ltd. 18. Mr. K.F.J Macdonald Perera -Chairman, Coir de Lanka Exports (Pvt) Ltd 19. Mr. W.R.I. Tissera -Managing Director, Classic Garment Pvt. Ltd. 20. Mr. I.S. Merenchige -Managing Director, W T L Automobiles (Pvt) Ltd. 21. Mr. Mohamed Feroze Haji Anver -Managing Director, Cliftex Industries (Private) Ltd. 22. Mr. Dammika Gunasekara -Director, Amethyst Resort 23. Mr. Zyresh Hashim -Security and Exchange Commission 24. Mr. Chandralal De Silva -Chairman, Bettans Group of Companies 25. Mr. Ravi Wijeratne, -Bettans Group of Companies 26. Mr. Mahesh Paqual -Chairman/Managing Director, Isuru Engineering (Pte) Ltd. 27. Mr. Adikari Wijesinghe -Representative Connaissance De Ceylan (Pvt) Ltd 28. Mr. Jit Warnakulasuriya -Chairman, Just In Time Holdings (Pvt) Ltd. 29. Mr. M.D.S. Hemantha Kumara -Chairman, Sarasavi Exports (Pvt) Ltd. 30. Mr. Laksiri J Peris -Managing Director Helix Engineering (Pvt) Ltd 31. Mr. Graetian Gunawardhana – Chairman/Managing Director, Hands International (Pvt) Ltd. 32. Mr. Aravandy Gangatharan- Managing Director, Kanan & Company 33. Mr. K.D.L.C. Udugama -Director , Southern Tea Producers Pvt. Ltd. 34. Mr. I.G. Samarasinghe -Managing Director, Unitrades (Pvt) Ltd. 35. Mr. Mahen Roshan Andrew Kariyawasan -Managing Director, Andrew the Travel Company (Pvt) Ltd. 36. Mr. Sampath Mendis – Managing Director, Delux Holidays 37. Mr. Ranaga Wijesinghe -Director, Chelcey Travels 38. Mr. Suchitra Aluwihare -Managing Director, Asian Adventure Travel Management Company 39. Mr. Sanjeewa Wickramanayake -Chairman, EW Information Systems 40. Mr. A. G. Wimalasena -Managing Director, New Universe Corporate Clothing (Pvt) Ltd 41. Mr. M.S. Mawzoon Managing- Director , Pyramid Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. 42. Mr. H.A.D.P.Suranjana -Chairman, Stylish Garments 43. Mr. M.I.M. Pathahulla -Chairman, Lanka Shoe Palace 44. Mr. Ajith Wattuhewa -Chairman Central Pre-cured Retreaders
20th Establishment of the Diplomatic Relations
19th November 2012
In the evening of the first day of the state visit H.E. the president attended the cultural show themed “Sri Lankan Night” On the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the establishment of Diplomatic Relations
between the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Republic of Kazakhstan, organized by the Sri Lankan Embassy in the Russian Federation in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Tourist Board at the palace of peace and reconciliation of Kazakhstan(Pyramid of Peace). Arrival of H.E. the President of Sri Lanka – Mr Mynbai Darhan Kamzabekuly, Minister of Culture and Information – will receive the main entrance. Perahera formation will be conducted with traditional welcome dance by Dancers & Drummers.
The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, also referred to as The Pyramid for its geometrical shape, is a unique building that has been conceived and designed by architect Sir Norman Foster (United Kingdom). This diversity is unified within the pure form of a pyramid, 62 meters high with a 62 x 62-meter base. It contains accommodations for different religions: Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism and other faiths. It also houses Museum of national culture, National opera and ballet theatre, the University of Civilizations, exposition and concert halls, a library, as well as a research centre of world religions and offices of spiritual denominations. The building is conceived as a global center for religious understanding, the renunciation of violence and the promotion of faith and human equality. The Palace hosted II Congress of World and Traditional religions in 2006 and Ministerial Conference “Common World: Progress through Diversity” in 2008. The Pyramid of Peace expresses the spirit of Kazakhstan, where cultures, traditions and representatives of various nationalities coexist in piece, harmony and accord. “The four sides of our Palace are oriented to the four sides of the world. In some sense this construction embodies independent Kazakhstan that friendly embraces all people of all nations and practicing different religions”, – Nursultan Nazarbayev describes the building.
The famous Dance troupe of Mr. Chandana Wickramasinghe commenced the show with a traditional dance from Kandy, blessing the audience with prosperity. Thereafter the welcome speeches were conducted by the Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Russia H.E. Udayanga Weerathunga and Hon. Mynbai Darhan Kamzabekuly, Minister of Culture and Information.
Many more Sri Lankan traditional dances were staged representing many of the countries vivid cultural sects which also included Pandampaaliya, Pahatharata Natum, and Drum Orchestra amongst others. Kazakhstan traditional artists too delighted the audience with some eye-catching Kazakhstan cultural items. The show was concluded with the “Dasa Desa Sri Lanka” dance which depicted the culture, beauty and glory of Sri Lanka.
Kazakhstan Children welcomed the President and the First Lady
19th November 2012
Marking the beginning of a golden era in 20 year old diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sri Lankan President H.E. Mahinda Rajapaksa commenced a State visit to this landlocked Central Asian country on 19th November 2012. Being the first to be visited by a Sri Lankan Head of State to the Republic of Kazakhstan further enhanced the significance of the event. Once part of the Soviet Union, the Republic of Kazakhstan is emerging as a nation with enormous economic potential backed by a government considered as one of the most politically stable in the Central Asian region. The President’s visit happened in an era where more and more powerful nations are eyeing the economic opportunities, this landlocked Central Asian country is beginning to unveil.
H.E. the President was warmly welcomed by the Minister of Economic Development and Trade of Kazakhstan Honorable Erbolat Dosayev & Mayor of Astana upon arrival by a special aircraft at the Astana National Airport at 13.30 on 19th November 2012. Kazakhstan girls in their traditional dresses greet the Sri Lankan Leader by custom of the country & 3 Kazakh girls present flowers to the Madam Rajapaksa. The International Airport at Astana had been beautifully decorated with Sri Lankan and Kazakhstan flags.
Sri Lanka’s External Affairs Minister Hon. Prof. G.L. Peiris, President’s Secretary Mr. Lalith Weeratunga, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation H.E. Udayanga Weerathunga who is concurrently accredited to the Republic of Kazakhstan were also present. After the initial welcoming ceremony the President was escorted to the official VIP hall and tea was served for the Sri Lankan delegation. The Minister of Economic Development and Trade of Kazakhstan accompanied President Rajapaksa to the RIXOS President Hotel in Astana the capital city of Kazakhstan, where the Sri Lankan leader was accommodated.
Delegation: Hon. Prof. G L Peiris, Minister of External Affairs, Mrs. Savitri Nelun Peiris, Spouse of the Hon. Minister of External Affairs, Hon. Shaseendra Rajapaksa, Chief Minister, Uva Province, Mr. Lalith Weeratunga, Secretary to the President, Prof. S. D. Jayaratne, Physician to the President, Mrs. Kshenuka Senewiratne, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Mr. A.S. Khan, Director General/Economic Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, Mr. Majintha Jayesinghe, Chief of Protocol, Dr. Nalaka Godahewa, Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission, Mr. Janaka Rathnayake, Chairman, Export Development Board, Mr. Bashwara Senanka Gunarathna, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism, Ms. Dayani Mendis, Director/Europe, Ministry of External Affairs.
Sri Lankan Culture and Traditions shared with People in Astana
18-22 November 2012
Grand Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Show organized by the Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in the Russian Federation commenced its activities with a glittering show at the Khan Shatyr Mall in the Astana city which is the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the 18-22 November 2012. Meticulously planned and minutely executed under the close supervision of His Excellency Udayanga Weeratunga, the Ambassador to Russian Federation with accreditation to the Republic of Kazakhstan, the show at the mall aptly named, Shopping Mall Activation showcasing the ‘Culture and Traditions’ of Sri Lanka was a tremendous success and gave the right impetus to other activities to follow. According to many who visit Astana, Khan Shatyr Mall is considered one of the best malls in the city. This Mega shopping Mall got pretty much everything from clothes to alcohol to souvenirs. Due to this Mall attracts large number of locals and foreigners and is ideal for tourism promotional activities.
Ambassador Weeratunga hosts Mr. Konstantin Dolgov for a Working dinner
3rd October 2012
Ambassador of Sri Lanka in the Russian Federation H.E. Udayanga Weeratunga and Madam Uma Weeratunga hosted Russian Foreign Ministry Commissioner for Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law Ambassador-at-large Mr. Konstantin Dolgov and Madam Natalia Dolgova to a working dinner on 03rd October. The dinner took place at the Official Residence of Ambassador Weeratunga.
The event was arranged to discuss the results of the visit of Mr. Dolgov to Sri Lanka during 19-21 September 2012 at the invitation of Minister of External Affairs of Sri Lanka. During the dinner Ambassador Dolgov briefed Ambassador Udayanga Weeratunga of his discussions with the senior government officials of Sri Lanka on the work already done by the Government of Sri Lanka with regard to reconciliation and development in the country after the end of the Humanitarian Operation by the Sri Lanka Armed Forces in 2009. The efforts of the government for the successful return of Internally Displaced Persons to their original places and the rehabilitation of former LTTE combatants were highly commended by Mr. Dolgov.
Ambassador Dolgov also shared the experiences of his brief visit to Sri Lanka. Noting that he has travelled to many countries, Mr. Dolgov compared the positive developments in Sri Lanka. Colombo in particular was appreciated for its cleanliness and well maintenance. He also noted the Sri Lankan hospitality which he enjoyed during his short visit.
The discussion also touched on the trade relations between Sri Lanka and Russia. Speaking of the investment opportunities in Russia Mr. Dolgov stressed the need to encourage Sri Lankan entrepreneurs and businessmen to invest in the country. He said steps should be taken to relax the procedures to encourage Sri Lankans to visit Russia and to make use of the opportunities aimed at promoting trade between the two countries.
Mr. Ruslan Bayramov, the Founding President and Manager of “Etnomir also joined the dinner. During the conversation it was noted that the project “Etnomir” has been designed as an open air museum to promote the ethnic and cultural diversity of the countries around the world. Mr. Bayramov invited Sri Lankan businessmen to make use of the “Sri Lankan cultural house” (the design was based on “Sigiriya” the world famous Lion’s rock in Sri Lanka) which is nearly constructed in the Etnomir complex, to promote their products in Russia and to develop business partnership with Russian businesses.
Travel & Tourism Exhibition “Leisure 2012″ in Moscow
19th – 22th Spetember 2012
18th International Trade Fair for Travel & Tourism “Leisure 2012” was held on September 19-22, 2012 at the IEC ”Crocus Expo” in Moscow, Russia. Sri Lanka Embassy in Moscow organized the Sri Lanka stand with the assistance of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.
14 companies namely; Exotic Global Holidays, Club Bentota /Mount Lavinia Hotel, Maldiviana Holidays, Connaissance de Ceylon, Aitken Spence Travels, Tangerine Tours, Concord Exotic Voyages, Jetwing Travels & Hotels, Walkers Tours, Nkar Travel & Tours, Citrus Leisure, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Serendib Leasure and Serene Pavilions were presented at the Sri Lanka stand. The representatives of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and the Embassy of Sri Lanka also took part at the exhibition.
Special area was given to the national carrier SriLankan Airlines within the Sri Lanka stand which celebrated one year of regular operations in the Moscow –Colombo route. Mr. Nishantha Wickramasinghe, the Chairman of SriLankan Airlines graced the occasion by arriving to Moscow. He also visited the Sri Lanka stand and held several meetings with tour operators and hoteliers in the Leisure exhibition.
For one year the SriLankan Airlines has operated 104 flights and has carried approximately 11,000 passengers. The route Colombo-Moscow-Colombo is of much success with over 80% seat occupancy. Hence the airline considers the possibility of increasing the weekly number of flights from 2 to 4 in the nearest future. Meanwhile, additional flights will be on operation during New Year holidays.
His Excellency the Ambassador Udayanga Weeratunga, and Mr. Nishantha Wickramasinghe, the Chairman of SriLankan Airlines, opened the Sri Lanka stand with lighting the traditional oil lamp with other participants. Delivering the speeches at the opening ceremony, they highlighted the increment of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka. During the first 8 months of this year the total tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka raised by15.8%. Almost 623,000 people visited the country. Among them, around 15,000 tourists were from Russia, which is 50.2% growth compared with last year.
His Excellency the Ambassador Udayanga Weeratunga also shared his future plans on tourism promotion with the representatives of the tourist companies and the hotels of Sri Lanka; particularly, about the video guide for the Russian tourists and the English version of the Catalogue on Sri Lanka Tourism. Both projects are at the final stages and will be published before long. An Audio guide and the Catalogue on Sri Lanka Tourism in the Russian Language are already in circulation.
His Excellency the Ambassador wished all the participants good luck and expressed that he expects the Tour and travel operators along with the hoteliers will do their best to continue attracting tourists to the country to achieve the target of 2.5 million tourists by 2016.
