Sri Lanka and Mali established formal diplomatic relations on 19th January, 2012. Dr Palitha T.B. Kohona, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of Sri Lanka, while Mr Oumar Daou, Permanent Representative of Mali to the United Nations signed on behalf of Mali. 

The relations between the two countries date back to 1960’s, when Sri Lanka along with Tunisia sponsored the resolution which facilitated the admission of Mali to the United Nations.

The two Permanent Representatives expressed their expectation that this MOU would significantly contribute to the consolidation of bilateral relations, especially for the promotion of commercial, trade and cultural relations and  friendship between the two countries.

Both sides also  agreed to work closely on international issues. The importance of sharing each others’ expertise in the fields of agriculture and development was also stressed.

Ministry of External Affairs
Colombo

January 25, 2012