Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has commenced an official visit to New Zealand and Australia from May 26 to June 3, following invitations from the two governments.

A key highlight of the visit will be the official opening of Sri Lanka’s new High Commission in Wellington, New Zealand.

According to the Foreign Minister, the mission will provide diplomatic and consular services to more than 30,000 Sri Lankans living in New Zealand.

During the visit, Herath is scheduled to meet New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters and several senior government ministers. He is also expected to meet representatives of the New Zealand Business Council and the Sri Lankan community in the country.

The Foreign Minister will also visit Australia, where he is due to hold discussions with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Governor-General Sam Mostyn, alongside several high-level engagements.

Prior to departing, Herath also met New Zealand High Commissioner to Sri Lanka David Pine at the Bandaranaike International Airport..