(Sumith Kadawathage, London corr.)

Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for International Development reiterated the UK’s continued support to Sri Lanka’s peace process when he  met Milinda Moragoda, Minister of Economic Reforms, Science and Technology on October 16 in London.  Secretary Benn pointed out the essentiality of economic development to sustain peace in the country.  Minister Moragoda briefed Secretary Benn on the present status of the peace process and emphasised the importance of the international community’s support in keeping the momentum of the development in order to achieve a durable peace in Sri Lanka.

During the discussion Minister Moragoda on behalf of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe extended an invitation to Secretary Benn to visit Sri Lanka at an earliest convenient time, as his predecessor Baroness Amos was schedule to do so in November this year.  The Secretary of State assured that he would undertake this visit early next year.

Minister Moragoda took the opportunity to exchange views on other bilateral and international issues including relations with the European Union and the situation in Iraq.  He thanked the UK Government for the continued assistance rendered in Sri Lanka’s development agenda and highlighted the areas of requirement.

Hilary Benn was appointed Secretary of State for International Development following cabinet change that took place earlier this month.  He replaced Baroness Amos who was appointed the leader of the House of Lords.  Secretary Benn was Minister of State for International Development before his present appointment.

Mrs. Kshenuka Senawiratna, Acting High Commissioner in the UK was also present.