New Zealand has agreed to fund an immigration resource center in Ampara, as reported by the New Zealand High Commission. The agreement was reached with Manusha Nanayakkara, the Minister of Labor and Foreign Employment, who received full support for the center’s establishment. Additionally, New Zealand has committed to providing the necessary funds for this initiative.
The Immigration Resource Center will be situated in the Ampara area. A significant discussion regarding this endeavor took place this morning between the Minister and Andrew Traveller, the Deputy High Commissioner of the New Zealand High Commission.
To formalize the establishment of the center, a memorandum of understanding will be signed between the two countries. The relevant memorandum of understanding is currently under review by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and awaits approval from the Cabinet.
The center is planned to be set up near the district office of the Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau in Ampara. Its operations will closely collaborate with the district office’s functions.
New Zealand has committed to providing assistance for a period of three years following the center’s establishment.
Through this initiative, programs will be implemented to raise awareness among vulnerable individuals about safe migration and foreign employment. Moreover, the project will play a crucial role in preventing human trafficking and irregular migration. There are expectations to gradually expand these programs to encompass the entire island.
During the meeting, the Deputy High Commissioner of New Zealand emphasized that this project aims to strengthen the relationship between Sri Lanka and New Zealand. It also strives to contribute to the overall improvement of people’s lives.