In a bid to strengthen ties between Germany and Sri Lanka, a four-member delegation from the German Parliament, spearheaded by former Federal Minister Renate Kuenast, is slated to embark on an official visit to Sri Lanka from March 1 to 5, 2024.
The delegation, comprising members from various political parties, is scheduled to engage in a series of official meetings throughout their stay. Among the key figures they are set to confer with are Minister of Foreign Affairs M. U. M. Ali Sabry, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, and Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa.
One of the focal points of discussion during their visit will be the establishment of a regular exchange program between Members of Parliament from both nations, as coordinated by the Sri Lanka – Germany Parliamentary Friendship Association.
Moreover, the delegation will hold dialogues with representatives from International Financial Institutions, civil society organizations, think tanks, and the local business community. They will also visit the Ceylon German Technical Training Institute in Moratuwa (German Tech), a flagship project symbolizing bilateral cooperation in education and skills development.
Given Germany's active involvement in reconciliation efforts, the delegation will meet with civil society organizations collaborating with GIZ on the implementation of SCOPE (Social Cohesion and Peace) initiatives.
Venturing beyond the capital, the delegation will journey to the Uva Province to inspect development projects supported by the German government and the European Union. Notably, they will explore the pekoe trail, a sustainable tourism endeavor co-funded by the EU, and engage in discussions facilitated by the Uva Shakthi Foundation regarding the state of the tea industry and plantations.
Further underscoring their commitment to sustainable agriculture, the delegation plans to visit the Lanka Organic Agriculture Movement (LOAM) in Kumbukkana, an organization dedicated to promoting organic farming practices in Sri Lanka.
