Hanoi would push for the launch of a direct Vietnam-Sri Lanka flight, which in turn would promote tourism and mutual understanding between the two countries.

Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Tran Sy Thanh and Sri Lanka's Ambassador A. Saj U. Mendis. Photo: The Hanoi Times

Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Tran Sy Thanh made the pledge at a meeting with newly appointed Sri Lankan Ambassador A. Saj U. Mendis on July 7.

During the meeting, Ambassador Mendis expressed his honor to serve in Vietnam, a dynamic and leading developing country in Southeast Asia. On behalf of the Government and people of Sri Lanka, he expressed appreciation for Vietnam's support in Sri Lanka's development process in recent years.

The Ambassador also shared his admiration for Vietnam's overall development achievements and, in particular, for Hanoi's effective policies to attract investment and utilize its abundant labor force, which has resulted in remarkable advances in trade and economic development.

He conveyed the Sri Lankan Government's desire to strengthen the exchange of development experiences between the two countries, based on their similarities, and to explore opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. Mendis expressed hope for support and favorable conditions for the activities of the Embassy in Hanoi.

Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Tran Sy Thanh acknowledged that the current achievements in cooperation between Vietnam, particularly Hanoi, and Sri Lanka are still modest, despite the potential for broader cooperation between the two nations. He stressed the need to further expand bilateral cooperation.

Thanh suggested strengthening cooperation in tourism development as a first step to increase awareness and visits between Sri Lanka and Vietnam. He also reiterated his commitment to facilitate the establishment of direct flights between the two countries in the near future.

The Mayor also stressed the importance of mutual understanding and friendship between the people of Vietnam and Sri Lanka as a strong foundation for future cooperation. In this regard, the Hanoi Municipality is ready to provide full support and create favorable conditions for events organized by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Hanoi, with special emphasis on promoting exchanges and training activities among the youth of both nations, thus fostering and maintaining long-term friendship and cooperation.