The Sri Lanka delegation to the Partnership Forum was led by Sumith Nakandala, Additional Secretary (Bilateral Affairs) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while the South African delegation was led by Dr. Anil Sooklal, Deputy Director General (Asia and Middle East), Department of International Relations and Cooperation. Senior officials of both Foreign Ministries participated in the discussions, with several line Ministries and Agencies representing Sri Lanka also contributing.
The deliberations focused on further strengthening political relations through exchange of high level visits and cooperation in maritime issues, security and migration, as well as increasing bilateral trade and investment. The Forum also followed up on the progress made in existing areas of cooperation, including education, tourism, wildlife, forestry, fisheries, irrigation, energy, sports, science,technology, and water which had been identified by both countries as priority sectors.
Sri Lanka reiterated its request for favourable access to the South African market. Both sides emphasized the need for exchange of high level business delegations to strengthen the dialogue with the private sector and to have air connectivity between the two countries.
The modalities and substantive matters with regard to the implementation of the signed bilateral agreements and the early finalization of pending agreements for the mutual benefit of both countries were also discussed. Sri Lanka and South Africa also reaffirmed their shared commitment in working towards intensifying engagement at multilateral fora on issues of mutual interest. Sri Lanka appreciated the fruitful cooperation with South Africa in working towards stronger bilateral ties.
Eighth Session of the Partnership Forum will be held in Pretoria in 2019.