In a recent roundtable discussion organized by the Consortium of Indian Industry (CII) and World Economic Forum, President Ranil Wickremesinghe took center stage, revealing a comprehensive economic vision for Sri Lanka. The President underscored the successful resolution of supply bottlenecks, the removal of import restrictions, and the restoration of foreign exchange liquidity as pivotal elements contributing to sustained economic growth.
Sri Lanka is actively broadening its trade agreements, recently concluding a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Singapore and gearing up for an upcoming FTA with Thailand in February. Ongoing discussions with India, China, and Southeast Asian nations highlight the nation’s commitment to global economic integration.
President Wickremesinghe extended a warm welcome to private investments, particularly in infrastructure development and the divestment of state-owned enterprises. Lucrative opportunities for potential investors were emphasized in key sectors such as telecommunications, financial services, and energy. Collaborative efforts with India on renewable energy projects, particularly offshore wind and solar sources, underscored the commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Plans for a high-capacity power grid and bidirectional electricity trade further demonstrated dedication to energy and power connectivity.
Bilateral trade and economic engagement were central themes, with outlined plans for liberalizing trade in goods and services, customs cooperation, and trade facilitation with India. The emphasis on technology cooperation and the use of the Indian rupee for trade settlement reflects a commitment to strengthening economic ties. Sri Lanka’s vision extends to tourism and people-to-people connectivity, fostering cultural and educational collaborations.
Engaging with top Indian CEOs across various sectors, President Wickremesinghe discussed opportunities in supply chain efficiency, healthcare, consumer products, telecom, and clean energy. The roundtable positioned Sri Lanka as an attractive destination for diverse investments. Recognizing the importance of digital technologies in logistics, the President highlighted the potential for collaboration in enhancing infrastructure efficiency.
In conclusion, President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s dynamic vision, shared during the roundtable, underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to economic prosperity, regional collaboration, and sustainable development. The dialogue with Indian CEOs lays the groundwork for robust partnerships and investments, fostering a new era of economic growth for Sri Lanka.
