The official welcoming ceremony for President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who is on an official visit to Japan, at the invitation of the Japanese Government, was held on Monday (29) morning at the premises of the Japanese Prime Minister’s Office. Upon arrival, the President was warmly received by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and a Guard of Honour was accorded to him by the Japan Self-Defence Forces. Following the introduction of the delegations of the two countries, official discussions commenced between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake observed that the longstanding friendship between Sri Lanka and Japan is built on mutual trust, respect and strong people-to-people ties. Thereafter, the President, together with the Sri Lankan delegation, attended the luncheon hosted in his honour by the Japanese Prime Minister for the distinguished delegates.