PRESS RELEASE

The Consulate General of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in Toronto, Canada, commenced functioning with effect from 4th June 2001. It will attend to the consular work, passport and visa matters etc., in the Greater Toronto Area, Windsor and Kitchner.

The establishment of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Toronto followed a decision made by the Cabinet of Ministers on the proposal of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to locate such offices in areas having a large Sri Lankan expatriate community in order to serve them expeditiously. The Consulate General will attend to the consular requirements of approximately 200, 000 Sri Lankans living in the area and its presence in Toronto will provide opportunity for more interaction between representatives of the Government of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lankan community there.

Mr. W .M. Senevirathna, a senior Foreign Service officer has been appointed as Sri Lanka's Consul General in Toronto, with Ambassador rank. A team of officers appointed to the Consulate General by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombo will assist him.

The Consulate General is located at No. 30 St. Clair Avenue West, Suite No.805, Toronto, Ontario. M4V 3A1. It can be contacted by telephone number (416) 323-9133 and fax number (416) 323-3205.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs