Prof. Peiris made this comment during a discussion with Brazil’s External Relations Minister Antonio Patriota, in Brazil, the external affairs ministry said in a statement.

At their bilateral discussions both the ministers noted that the substantial convergence of interests and priorities of the two countries provided a firm basis for closer co-operation, in the bilateral relationship.

Minister Peiris briefed his counterpart in the Government of Brazil about current developments in Sri Lanka and progress in all sectors after the advent of peace.

Among the similarities between the experiences of the two countries identified by the Ministers were the importance of political leadership and sound strategy in eradicating violence and the sense of pride in one’s own identity and cultural traditions as a powerful motivating force in evolving approaches to issues.

Both countries, the Ministers noted, while placing a premium on economic development as a means of raising the living standards of their people, consistently formulated their national plans on the basis of social equity to ensure that the less affluent sections of society became full participants and beneficiaries of development.

Brazil’s External Relations Minister Patriota appreciated the priority accorded by the Government of Sri Lanka to the strengthening of relations with countries in Latin America, and pledged his wholehearted co-operation in deepening  Brazil’s relations with Sri Lanka.