Lasantha Somaratne, head of Strategic Business Development at Sri Lanka’s Hayleys PLC, told the VNA that Viet Nam and Sri Lanka share many similarities in culture, history, and development orientation. Both countries, he observed, have deep Buddhist traditions that have helped shape common spiritual and cultural values as well as close people-to-people links.
He also viewed agriculture as an important foundation of both economies, adding that Viet Nam’s achievements in industrialisation and economic growth offer valuable experience for Sri Lanka in its recovery and development efforts.
According to Somaratne, regular delegation exchanges and high-level visits over the years have contributed significantly to bilateral friendship and cooperation.
Reflecting on the exhibition, he said the photos recall meaningful milestones in the development of Viet Nam – Sri Lanka relations. Images capturing high-level visits and bilateral exchanges illustrate the depth of a relationship built on mutual trust, respect, and shared cultural values. The exhibition also brings back memories of To Lam’s earlier visit to Sri Lanka when he served as Viet Nam’s Minister of Public Security.
Somaratne considered the Vietnamese leader’s return to Sri Lanka for the state visit a reflection of the importance Viet Nam attaches to its traditional friendship with Sri Lanka, and also an expression of expectations for stronger bilateral cooperation in the future.
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