Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi has been elected Chairman of the Sri Lanka–Bahrain Parliamentary Friendship Association for the Tenth Parliament.
The association was formally established at a meeting held in Parliament on June 23 under the patronage of Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne. Parliament Secretary General Kushani Rohanadeera also attended the event.
MP Sujeewa Senasinghe was elected Secretary of the association, while MP Anushka Thilakaratne was elected Treasurer.
MPs Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran, Aboobucker Athambawa, Kader Masthan and Hector Appuhamy were elected Vice Chairpersons, while MPs Elayathamby Srinath and Lal Premanath were appointed Assistant Secretaries.
Addressing the gathering, Speaker Wickramaratne noted that diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Kingdom of Bahrain, established in 1992, have expanded steadily across political, economic and cultural sectors. He said the Sri Lankan community in Bahrain continues to play a key role in strengthening ties between the two countries.
The Speaker said the Parliamentary Friendship Association would serve as an important platform to enhance parliamentary dialogue and cooperation, adding that continued engagement and discussion are essential in addressing global challenges.
Speaking after his election, Dr. Patabendi emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations through active parliamentary engagement, particularly in the areas of trade, investment and tourism. He said the association would also support the welfare of Sri Lankans living in Bahrain while contributing to the economic development of both countries.
The meeting was attended by ministers, deputy ministers, members of parliament and parliamentary officials. (Newswire)