Sri Lanka Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran G.M. Vipulatheja Wishwanath Aponsu met several key dignitaries including Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Mohammed Hossein Niknam, Director General (West Asia) of the Foreign Ministry of Iran Dr. Seyyed Rasoul Mousavi, and Head of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) Dr. Pir Hossein Kolivandon 12 June 2022 at their offices in Tehran. The main objective of the meetings were to develop collaboration in health and pharmaceutical sectors between Sri Lanka and Iran under the framework of South-South cooperation.
While appreciating Iran’s continued assistance to Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan envoy outlined the current challenges in Sri Lanka particularly the lack of pharmaceuticals and medical utilities. Highlighting the longstanding friendly relations between Iran and Sri Lanka, the Iranian dignitaries assured that the Government of Iran would continue extending assistance to Sri Lanka in every possible way to overcome the current challenges in Sri Lanka.In response to the Ambassador’s request on urgent requirement of medical equipment, Head of the IRCSconveyed that his organization will able to offer medical aid to Sri Lanka after reviewing the Sri Lanka’s needs.
Further, the Iranian key personnel expressed that the Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to provide medical education and trainings, medical equipment and pharmaceuticals items to Sri Lanka. They also stated that Iran is willing to invest in health and pharmaceutical sectors in Sri Lanka.
The Head of IRCS, Dr. Kolivand stated that if Sri Lanka is interested in obtaining health services, the IRCS can dispatch its health team to Sri Lanka as appropriate for treatment of patients who are in unprivileged areas.The Sri Lanka Ambassador Wishwanath Aponsu assured them to bring the Iranian proposals to the attention of health authorities in Sri Lanka for consideration.
The Ambassador thanked the above dignitaries for facilitating the productive deliberations and conveyed the deep appreciation of the Government of Sri Lanka to Iran’s pledge of donation of medical aid.
Expert (West Asia) of the Iranian Foreign Ministry Mohomad Deldhari was also present at the discussions.
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