Sri Lanka looks for diplomatic relationship with several West African countries

Sri Lanka has for the first time decided to establish diplomatic relations with many West African Countries.

Majority of these countries are French language speaking - Francophone countries and they are former French colonies.

Asian Tribune learnt that already negotiations have commenced with 13-countries and the establishment of the diplomatic relationship would be announced as and when the final negotiations are over.

According to diplomatic sources, Sri Lanka has indicated its desire to establish diplomatic relationship with the following countries:

Cameroon

Cape Verde

Central African Republic

Chad

Cote d’ Ivoire

Djibouti

Equatorial Guinea

Gambia

Malawi

Mauritania

Niger

Sierra Leone

Togo

It is learnt that it is difficult to establish consular representations with these West African countries as there is an acute shortage of French speaking diplomats with the External Affairs Ministry of Sri Lanka.

Furthermore, Asian Tribune learnt that even though there are one or two diplomats who are conversant with French Language, unfortunately they have not indicated their willingness to serve in any West African Countries.

A Sri Lankan diplomat who wishes to remain anonymous told Asian Tribune that there is a dearth even in the midst of academics who could be made as political appointees, as there are hardly anyone with French language working knowledge.

- Asian Tribune -