Ayatollah Khamenei the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution met this evening with the President of Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa. At the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei said that unity between friendly states strengthens their position, increases their power and secures their national interests.

Ayatollah Khamenei referred to the efforts of the domineering powers and added: "They are trying to show that they are invincible, but the experiences of Iran and Sri Lanka show that it is possible to put up a resistance against colonialism and the hegemons."

His Eminence praised Sri Lanka for supporting the Palestinian nation and showing respect for the rights of Sri Lankan Muslims. He also welcomed the Sri Lankan President's interest in expansion of ties with Iran.

In the Meeting, President Mahinda Rajapaksa expressed his gratitude to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution for his statements at the inauguration of the 16th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Tehran, saying: "The proposal of cleansing the Middle East of nuclear weapons and the statements that Your Eminence made in support of Palestine were very interesting."

The Sri Lankan President referred to the efforts of its country to combat terrorism and secure the rights of Sri Lankan Muslims and stated: "We are sure that with your help, we can overcome many of the problems."

Referring to Iran-Sri Lanka cooperation in pharmaceutical industry, agriculture and development plans, Mahinda Rajapaksa urged comprehensive expansion of these ties.