10 SL missions to bring economic benefits to country: Ministry

Ten Sri Lankan Missions abroad in emerging markets are being supported in carrying out targeted campaigns that would enhance Sri Lanka’s global footprint and bring tangible economic benefits to Sri Lanka, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said on 16.10.2018.

In a statement issued over the ‘Sri Lanka Foreign Policy and Economic Diplomacy Dialogue’ which was organized by the Ministry, it said programmes are being initiated to promote ICT products and services and also organic food products in Sweden.

“Our missions are promoting apparel, textile & footwear in South Africa, fresh and processed food in Bahrain, Gems and Jewellery in Turkey, spices and apparel in Brazil, wellness tourism in the UAE, inward investment from the Republic of Korea and Japan and outward investment in Myanmar and Nepal,” it said.

The Foreign Ministry has set specific performance targets to be accomplished on exports, investment, tourism and foreign employment for each Mission.

The Foreign Policy and Economic Diplomacy Dialogue commenced on Monday with the participation of midcareer diplomats from 23 countries from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Australasia.

Diplomats from Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brazil, China, Cuba, Egypt, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, United Arab Emirates and Vietnam, are attending these sessions.

The two week long programme is held as part of the Economic Diplomacy Programme (EDP) of the Foreign Ministry and will primarily focus on Sri Lanka’s Economy with special emphasis on its emergence as a ‘Hub of the Indian Ocean’ and as a trade, investment, and tourist destination, while showcasing Sri Lanka’s international brands, entrepreneurship, as well as important strides in research and innovation.

It will also explore Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture, aspects of foreign policy including positions on international politics, and thematic issues – good governance, sustainable development, and right to information, social media and cyber security. Sri Lanka’s key government officials, academics, scientists, and business leaders will participate in the discussions, and a 3- day field visit will follow.

At the commencement of the session, the participants called on Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana, who welcomed them and wished them a productive and enjoyable stay in Sri Lanka.

Our missions are promoting apparel, textile & footwear in South Africa, fresh and processed food in Bahrain, Gems and Jewellery in Turkey, spices and apparel in Brazil, wellness tourism in the UAE, inward investment from the Republic of Korea and Japan and outward investment in Myanmar and Nepal

Foreign Affairs State Minister Vasantha Senanayake who inaugurated the Dialogue, said Sri Lanka has always been a melting pot of diverse cultures and ethnicities as well as different religions, and its strategic geographical location has made it a unique international player since ancient times.

Acting Foreign Secretary Ravinatha Aryasinha addressing the diplomats said their presence was a reflection of the importance their respective Governments placed on relations with Sri Lanka.