The President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Truong Tan Sang arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake for a three-day official visit on an invitation extended by President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The visiting President was received on arrival by President Rajapaksa at the Airport and was accorded a ceremonial welcome including a guard of honour by the Sri Lanka Navy, followed by a 21-gun salute. The Vietnamese President was accompanied by First Lady, Madam Mai Thi Hanh and a high-powered business delegation. This is the first state visit by a Vietnamese President to Sri Lanka, since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1970. President Rajapaksa made a state visit to Vietnam in October 2009. During this visit, the two countries agreed to promote cooperation in economy, trade and investment to raise a two-way trade path which was at USD 65 million to US$100 million by 2012. President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam H.E. Truong Tan Sang and Madam Mai Thi Hanh warmly received by H.E. Presedent Mahinda Rajapaksa and First Lady Madam Shiranth Rajapaksa at the Bandaranayake International Airport on 13th October 2011.. Trade between Sri Lanka and Vietnam could potentially reach US$ 1 billion in the coming years thanks to an oil and gas cooperation pact and other business sector initiatives signed during a historic visit to Sri Lanka by Vietnam President Truong Tan Sang. The two sides have agreed to strive for US$ 1 billion in two-way trade, following talks between President Mahinda Rajapaksa and President Truong Tan Sang, who was accompanied by a 60-member business delegation. The Vietnamese President has affirmed that the visit, with the signing of agreements on increasing two-way trade and investment, will mark a new development in the Vietnam-Sri Lanka relations as well as open new opportunities and create more favourable conditions for the business communities in both countries. The Vietnamese President reiterated Vietnam’s firm resolve to support Sri Lanka to achieve its economic goals and stability. President Rajapaksa had noted that Sri Lanka has attained peace and political stability and embarked on a national reconciliation process. Sri Lanka has set a target of becoming a middle-income country and a maritime and aviation hub linking the Middle East and Asia, he said. Sourse: www.sesatha.co.uk/Event_News/

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