At a cordial discussion that took place on the sidelines of the 69th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the two leaders caught up on a range of matters of bilateral interest.

President Rajapaksa briefed the Prime Minister on recent developments in Sri Lanka in the economic and development sectors as well as ongoing reconciliation work.

“The fact that LLRC is going so well is a credit to you,” Prime Minister Abbott told the President while also describing as “a remarkable achievement” Sri Lanka’s ability to maintain a 7.8% GDP growth with the potential of it increasing further before the end of the year.

The two leaders also discussed bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

“I am so grateful for the help that Sri Lanka has given,” Prime Minister Abbott told President Rajapaksa, referring to Sri Lanka’s assistance in dealing with the people smuggling issues Australia is facing.

The President and Prime Minister Abbott last met during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2013 in November of last year.

Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management Mr. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Member of Parliament Mr. J.R.P. Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga, and the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations Dr. Palitha Kohona were also present.