New agreement to be signed for more Job Opportunities in Italy for Sri Lankans: Minister Vijitha Herath

09-Jan-2026

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Foreign Employment and Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath announced that steps have been taken to sign a new agreement to provide employment opportunities for Sri Lankans in Italy, while existing agreements for employment in South Korea are being renewed.

He made these remarks in Parliament on Jan 7 while responding to questions raised by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa under Standing Order 27(2).

The Minister said 10,122 individuals have already registered online for employment in South Korea and that most are expected to secure jobs by March.

Responding to allegations of financial fraud amounting to Rs. 860 million in foreign employment schemes, he said those responsible were associated with previous administrations and that legal action has since been initiated. He also stated that existing legislation is insufficient and that steps will be taken to introduce a new law to replace the Foreign Employment Bureau Act of 1987.

Additionally, he said agreements have been signed to issue Italian driving licences to Sri Lankans currently employed in Italy within one month.