President Maithripala Sirisena arrives in Japan after concluding two-day official visit to India

COLOMBO (News 1^st) - President Maithripala Sirisena arrived in Japan today (March 12) at the start of his second State visit to the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that President Sirisena is in Japan at the invitation of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and will conclude his visit on the 17th. President Sirisena is scheduled to have an Imperial Audience with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko tomorrow (March 13). On Wednesday (March 14) President Sirisena will meet Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for summit talks. Following talks, the Japanese Premier will host the Sri Lankan President to a State dinner. The two leaders will discuss matters of mutual interest to deepen cooperation between Sri Lanka and Japan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that a Yen Loan Agreement between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Japan International Cooperation Agency is to be signed during the visit. The purpose of the loan is for the implementation of the Health and Medical Service Improvement Project. President Sirisena will attend a business meeting organized by the Japan External Trade Organization, which will be co-hosted by the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Senior Presidential Media Director, Dharma Sri Bandara Ekanayake said that this State visit draws much significance solely because it is at the invitation of the Japanese Prime Minister. Further, he stated that during the visit, the president is set to discuss political, economic and social factors affecting Sri Lanka. “The President will also meet with the Sri Lankan community living in Japan and will address the business meeting on economic factors affecting Sri Lanka.” - Dharma Sri Bandara Ekanayake https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bxnb2QgQLdc