The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism hosted a networking event under its Economic Diplomacy Programme to bring together foreign diplomats, senior government officials, Chamber representatives, and private sector on 08 June 2026 at the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra highlighted the importance of strengthened collaboration among diplomatic missions, government institutions, and the business community to achieve more effective economic diplomacy outcomes. Emphasizing the role of the Foreign Ministry as a facilitator, conduit, and enabler of economic cooperation, he reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to provide the necessary support and assistance to foster productive partnerships and facilitate quality investment and trade opportunities. The Deputy Minister highlighted that well-designed economic diplomacy initiatives serve as a bridge between foreign policy and domestic development priorities, enabling international engagement to deliver tangible economic benefits for the country.
In his remarks, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe emphasized Sri Lanka’s strong potential across a diverse range of sectors, underscoring the country’s unique value proposition as an attractive destination for trade, investment, and economic partnership.
The formal proceedings were followed by an interactive networking session enabling exchange of ideas, exploration of potential partnerships, and strengthening of professional and institutional relationships among the participants.
The event was attended by approximately 100 participants representing government, business and diplomatic communities, reflecting the growing importance of economic diplomacy and the shared commitment of stakeholders to strengthening collaboration in support of Sri Lanka's economic development agenda.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism
Colombo
10 June 2026
