The Sri Lanka – German Business Council established on the initiative of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Frankfurt was inaugurated by Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama on Thursday (21) at the Marriot Hotel in Frankfurt, Germany, A press release issued by the Consulate in Frankfurt said yesterday.

It also said: "The Business Council has been established to bring together Sri Lankan and German businessmen engaged in trade between the two countries.  Minister Bogollagama speaking to the business community expressed the hope that this forum would help to enhance connectivity given the tremendous potential in increasing bilateral trade.

Foreign Minister further highlighted the trade and Investment opportunities in Sri Lanka and made particular reference to the GSP+ scheme of the EU, as well as a avenues available to German investors wanting to make Sri Lanka a base to enter the vast South Asian markets under the Free Trade Agreements  with India and Pakistan.   He emphasized the special focus of Sri Lankan Missions abroad in promoting economic diplomacy.

Minister Bogollagama also addressed the Sri Lankan diaspora in Frankfurt, representing all communities.  The Minister briefed them on the emerging post- conflict scenario, particularly in the Eastern Province and the Government’s democratic agenda for the North and East, which includes empowering the people to participate actively in the democratic process.  He told the audience how a former child soldier of the LTTE had embraced the democratic mainstream and has now been elected as the Chief Minister of the Eastern Province.