The Association was founded in 1901 by 12 merchants, who had spent several years in Asia. Their intention was to treasure the memories of the time they spent in Asia and cultivate the relations with these countries. The Association started with 12 members, but recently the number of members has increased to more than 500. The members are from various background including political personalities of Germany, traders, entrepreneurs, industrials holders, bankers, academics and scientists, most of whom have a business- or academic connection with Asian countries.
As Sri Lanka and Germany celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the Association invited the Ambassador of Sri Lanka for Germany, Sarath Kongahage, as Guest of Honor and to deliver the keynote speech on the occasion of the 113 anniversary of the association at the old town hall of Bremen.
Ambassadors from Sri Lanka, India, and Indonesia, Nepal, Bangladesh, Philippines and Japan participated at the event..
In his keynote address, the Ambassador briefed the audience on the historical connections between Sri Lanka and European countries and also referred to the long-term business relationship between Sri Lanka and Germany, which goes beyond the 60 years of the diplomatic relationship between Sri Lanka and Germany. Germany is Sri Lanka's second largest investor from the European Union and has been a vibrant export market for high-quality Sri Lankan products.
Sri Lanka witnessed a steady and positive progress after the end of the internal conflict, the Ambassador said, adding that the country needed more investment and trade from Germany. The country had identified the five hubs of aviation, maritime, knowledge, energy and commercial, while tourism also has tremendous scope for investment, the ambassador added.
Hon. Consul of Sri Lanka for Bremen Thomas Kriwat who is a executive member of the Association as well as the former Hon. Consuls of Sri Lanka attended the event.
