A meeting between the Japanese Ambassador and the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, Mr. K.D. Lalkantha

A meeting between the Japanese Ambassador, Mr. Isomata Akio and the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, Mr. K.D. Lalkantha was held at the Ministry of Agriculture.

During the discussion, the Minister and the Ambassador reviewed the projects implemented in Sri Lanka by the Japanese government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), as well as the current status and progress of the ongoing projects.

Accordingly, discussions were held on promoting agricultural production in line with market demand in Sri Lanka, obtaining technical and advisory support for the proper and appropriate use of fertilizers and pesticides in local agriculture, securing the necessary advisory and technical assistance to develop the domestic liquid milk industry in the Northern and Eastern provinces, and obtaining the required support to minimize crop damage caused by wild animals.

Furthermore, attention was also drawn to transitioning local farmers from traditional agriculture to modernized agricultural practices and utilizing new technologies to attract young people who are leaving the agricultural sector back into the industry.

During the discussion, the Ambassador stated that Japan is prepared to provide the necessary support for the future development of agricultural sector of Sri Lanka. He also mentioned that, in response to the Minister’s request, proposals for the development and modernization of farmlands are already under consideration. Furthermore, the Ambassador highlighted that a significant number of Sri Lankan youth are currently employed in agricultural sector of Japan and that there is potential to further expand these opportunities.

The Minister further stated that there is great trust in Japan among Sri Lankans. Emphasizing the importance of strengthening these long-standing ties and mutual confidence, he expressed Sri Lanka’s readiness to work closely with Japan in the future. He also extended special gratitude for the participation in this discussion.

This event was attended by the Japanese Ambassador, Mr. Isomata Akio along with a group of officials, representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, Mr. K.D. Lalkantha, the Secretary to the Ministry, Mr. D.P. Wickramasinghe and other ministry officials.