Iran looking at greater trade relations with Sri Lanka

By Aisha Edris
Iran is looking at boosting its trade relations with Sri Lanka.

Iranian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Mahmood Salahi said that his government was looking at more cooperation in Sri Lanka’s construction industry through sharing the two countries expertise.

He also noted that his country was exploring all areas where it could enter into the Sri Lankan market.

“Through the Iranian trade exhibition we are trying to explore different markets in the country that we could easily enter. We are considering the construction industry in the country as there is much scope in that industry,” the ambassador said.

Iran is also looking at boosting its cooperation with Sri Lanka in the power and energy sectors.

The Iranian Trade Exhibition which will conclude on January 31 is showcasing a wide range of products from Iran including, petroleum, boat manufacturing, construction materials and engineering services, energy and water projects management, steel products and gypsum plus handicrafts, carpets, beverages, food and textiles.

Over 80 Iranian companies are participating in the exhibition.

The Iranian government said it was interested in bilateral trade and mega projects in Sri Lanka, with the key areas of focus being power and energy, and construction.

Amunugama ditches ambassador, scribes, for President

Iranian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Mahmood Salahi and journalists were severely inconvenienced after Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion, Sarath Amunugama who was scheduled to address the media on Monday failed to the turn up at the media conference.

The event was organised by the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka.

The press conference was scheduled for 10.30 a.m. at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre. The ambassador was present at the venue at sharp 10.30 a.m. However after waiting for more than an hour, an official from the BOI informed the media that Minister Amunugama was with the President and that he would not be able to participate in the press briefing.