Shared interests in combating terrorism – President sends good wishes to Obama

(January 23, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) Sri Lanka and the US share common democratic values and perspectives on a broad range of political issues, particularly in combating terrorism said President Mahinda Rajapaksa in a message of good wishes to Barack Obama, President of the United States of America.

“The Government and people of Sri Lanka deeply appreciate the principled stand taken by Government of United States that the integrity and sovereignty of Sri Lanka is non-negotiable. The role the United States is playing in achieving peace in Sri Lanka through the consolidation of democratic institutions and promoting economic development has earned our admiration and gratitude,” President Rajapaksa further said.

Here is the full text of the message,

His Excellency Barack Obama
President of the United States of America

Excellency,

It gives me great pleasure to extend to you, Mr. President, the warmest best wishes of the Government and the people of Sri Lanka and my own on the occasion of your inauguration as president of the United States of America. Your unprecedented victory reflects the trust that the American people have placed in your leadership and vision.

The warm and cordial relations that exist between our two countries are based on a long tradition of friendship, trust and mutuality of interests. We share common democratic values and perspectives on a broad range of political issues, particularly in combating terrorism.

The Government and people of Sri Lanka deeply appreciate the principled stand taken by Government of United States that the integrity and sovereignty of Sri Lanka is non-negotiable. The role the United States is playing in achieving peace in Sri Lanka through the consolidation of democratic institutions and promoting economic development has earned our admiration and gratitude.

As you prepare to embark on the first term of your Presidency, I wish to convey to Your Excellency my best wishes for a successful tenure of office and your personal well-being. I am confident that during your term of office there will be greater opportunities for our two countries to develop our bilateral relations further. It will be my pleasure to work with you closely for the promotion of world peace and prosperity.

I wish you all the success. - Sri Lanka Guardian