Prime Minister’s Media Unit

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said there is huge potential for further increasing trade, economic and Buddhist ties between Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
He said this when Myanmar Charge d’ Affairs Lei Yi Win called on him at the Temple Trees today (May 16).
The Prime Minister said that economic and trade relations in many areas such as gem and jewellery, tea and coconut trade, minerals, tourism with especial emphasis on Buddhist tourism could be strengthened. He also suggested barter trade on tea and coconut as Myanmar is keen to export coconut to Sri Lanka for processing and re-exporting to third countries.
Acting Ambassador Lei Yi Win said Sri Lanka could participate in ‘Yangoon Trade Fair’ to explore potential areas of imports and exports and economic collaboration.
She also said Myanmar will mark 75 years of diplomatic relations with Sri Lanka this year. She added that Myanmar will also celebrate 1,000 years of establishment of Theravada Buddhism during Badan Dynasty in the 11th century.
The Prime Minister pointed out that the teachings of the Buddha are prevalent even after 2600 years and it has helped to strengthen close religious and diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Myanmar. He also stated that Sri Lankan Buddhists are grateful to Myanmar for organizing a Higher Ordination in Sri Lanka in the 19th century which helped to establish the two sects called Ramannya and Amarapura nikayas.
Parliamentraian Yadamini Gunawardena, Secretary to the Prime Minister, Anura Dissanayake and Counsellor Thep Zaw Toe of Myanmar Embassy were also present on this occasion.