Israel is very eager in assisting Sri Lanka to explore immense potential in tourism, agriculture and water management adopting modern innovative techniques, visiting Israeli Ambassador to India and Sri Lanka, Dr. Ron Malka told the Business Times.
Dr. Malka who was on a three day fact finding visit to the Island noted that his country stands ready to provide technical knowhow in improving the resilience and productivity of agriculture in the paradise island.
Dr. Ron Malka as a new ambassador to India and Sri Lanka is considered as an important appointment by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has chosen to send his own nominee instead of a career diplomat to station in India amid growing bilateral ties.
Israel high tech innovation, including the introduction of improved crop varieties, cropping patterns, fertiliser and water resources management, amongst others could be extended to Sri Lankan farmers to improve their incomes and livelihoods, he added.
“We are sharing our technical knowhow and expertise in modern agriculture and water management practices with Sri Lanka especially on the drip water irrigation system, water desalination and assisting in the set up of greenhouses for advanced agricultural activities, he said.
He pointed out that one of the main aims of his current visit to establish contacts with state authorities and private sector stake holders to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
Dr. Malka expressed the belief that Sri Lanka tourism will bounce back after the Eater terror set back and aftermath travel restrictions imposed by several countries.
There was a slight decline in arrivals of Israeli travelers after terror attacks but the numbers will definitely increase as Israelis are used to such attacks and it will not deter them from visiting the island nation, he claimed.
Sri Lanka is a popular destination for Israeli tourists, especially for surfing, and their numbers are increasing.
Magical beaches and rich Buddhist heritage has attracted more than ten thousands Israelis each year, and the Sri Lankan Ministry of Tourism has set a goal to increase the amount of Israelis visiting the island by 20 percent this year.
Dr. Malka noted that he will make sure his country do more in the areas of agriculture, water, defence, and cyber security.
Bilateral trade between the two countries stood at US$ 200 million per year. Israel imports seafood, tea as well as gems from Sri Lanka.
Pledging to provide more employment opportunities for Sri Lankans to serve his country, he pointed out that Lankan caregivers were very popular with Israeli families and they were accepted for their commitment and dedication.
He further elaborated the current position of the joint pilot program for the recruitment and placement of caregivers from Sri Lanka to treat elderly disabled persons in Israel and the arrangement for the recruitment of Sri Lankan agricultural workers.
(LI)