<b>Sri Lankan PM is introducing a new political culture in the Country - Tyronne Fernando </b>

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tyronne Fernando, today called on the Prime Minister of Singapore, Goh Chok Tong. At this meeting with the Prime Minister of Singapore, Minister Fernando discussed issues of relevance and importance to the two countries.

The High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in Singapore, Ms. Chitranganee Wagiswara, too was present at this meeting with the Prime Minister of Singapore.

" Singapore, a well developed economy with a multi-ethnic society by nature, setting a compelling example to countries such as Sri Lanka, on dealing with sensitive issues such as the economy and multiculturism," Foreign Minister stated to Singapore Press Club on Thursday.

Hr added: “Singapore is a good example for countries, which are suffering from the cancer of ethnic violence."

" I was told that the national anthem of Singapore is in Malay,” the Minister added. “We, the politicians should lead the people to think according to the new trends and dynamics of globalization and regionalism."

"The people should be taught to avoid narrow colloquial lines of thinking. The time has come for all of us to rise above all these narrow divisions,” the Minister further added.

The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister explained: "The UNF Government in Sri Lanka is now striving to practice these preaching. We need to build up a new society. Our primary goal is to reach a negotiated settlement to the ongoing conflict. A peaceful society would lead to a conducive environment, which would enhance the standards of living of our society. Leadership must be guided through wisdom and foresight."

Tyronne Fernando emphasized , “A person of the caliber and stature of Lee Kuan Yew would worth million ships of gold!”.

"Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, is now engaged in an arduous task of introducing a new political culture to the country. The statesmanship, the Prime Minister Wickremesinghe has demonstrated and exercised during the past six-month period, has attracted the attention of the global community," the Minister stated.

“We are now on the path to peace. We have brought results through our dedication and commitment. People will not allow the politicians to derail the peace process,” the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister stressed.