Sri Lanka and Malaysia took a stern stand against terrorism during the bilateral meeting between the leaders of the two countries in Putrajaya, Malaysia, on 16 December.
Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who embarked on a three-day trip, which was also his maiden visit to the Southeast Asian nation on 15 December, was given a warm welcome by the country's Prime Minister Najib Razak.
National Anthem of both the nations was played upon President Sirisena arrival which was followed by his inspection of a guard-of-honour from the first Battalion Royal Malay Regiment at Perdana Square, Putrajaya.
In the afternoon, both the leaders, along with other ministers, sat to discuss policies to strengthen the economic and trade ties between the two countries. According to the New Straits Times, both the countries highly condemned terrorist acts that have plagued the world in recent times.
"Both sides agreed to continue sharing information and best practices with a view to address the challenges posed by terrorism and other traditional and non-traditional threats," they said in a joint statement," said a joint statement.
Also read: Malaysia's new monarch, Sultan Muhammad V of Kelantan, inaugurated
While talking about trade and commerce both the leaders readily agreed to initiate a Malaysia-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement.
"The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation, and to deepen their economic engagement for mutual benefits," said the statement.
In response, to Malaysia's inclusive approach, President Sirisena said Malaysian investors would enjoy benefits in Sri Lanka, reported the news website.
The visit also saw the signing of a five Memoranda of Understanding by both the countries covering the areas of tourism, youth development, culture, arts and heritage, foreign workers as well as scientific and technical cooperation.
The president is secluded to attend a cultural show and a food festival before heading back to Sri Lanka.
