High Commissioner Prasanna Gamage participated as the keynote speaker at the Research Colloquium 2026 organised by the Institute of Pacific Unity (IPU) in Palmerston North, New Zealand, on 9 October 2026.

In his keynote address, titled “Sustainability, Development, and Society,” the High Commissioner highlighted the importance of advancing sustainable development and international development cooperation. He also addressed key issues relating to globalisation, political economy, cross-border sustainability challenges, global citizenship, and Māori principles relevant to sustainability and development.

In addition to delivering the keynote address, High Commissioner Gamage chaired the first thematic session of the colloquium, engaging with presenters and contributing to discussions on contemporary issues in development and sustainability.

The event was attended by Prof. Joe Darun, Director Academic; Dr. Diyana Kamarudin, organiser of the Research Colloquium; Dr. Nathan Ehambara, Senior Lecturer; Mr. Hiroyasu Tsumakura, Public Relations Manager; as well as members of the academic staff and students of the IPU.

The colloquium provided a valuable platform for academic exchange, knowledge-sharing, and dialogue on research addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development.

Sri Lanka High Commission
Wellington

21 October 2026