Colombo’s ambassador in Riyadh, Pakeer Mohideen Amza, emphasized that the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka is grounded in common values, mutual respect, support, and non-interference. Speaking at a reception commemorating the 76th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence, Ambassador Amza highlighted the historical ties between the two nations, dating back centuries when Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in the historic silk route used by Arab traders.
Expressing admiration for Saudi Vision 2030, Ambassador Amza commended the Kingdom’s strategic planning and progress under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He also expressed satisfaction that Riyadh would host Expo 2030, a venture strongly supported by Colombo.
Ambassador Amza noted the remarkable productivity in bilateral relations over the past two years, citing significant diplomatic visits, including the historic bilateral foreign ministerial visit by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to Sri Lanka in March 2022—the first since diplomatic relations were established in 1974. Minister of Foreign Affairs for Sri Lanka, Ali Sabry, reciprocated with a visit to Saudi Arabia the following year.
The ambassador highlighted the signing of three agreements covering double taxation avoidance, foreign employment, and political consultation, as well as the success of the first joint commission session in May 2023, identifying 63 areas for further cooperation. Additionally, the economic cooperation road map, drawn during the visit of Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Al-Ibrahim in November 2023, was acknowledged.
Ambassador Amza noted the growth in employment opportunities for Sri Lankans in Saudi Arabia, with 63,000 positions created, contributing significantly to the $7-8 billion annual remittances from Saudi-based Sri Lankans. He also highlighted the increasing number of Saudi nationals visiting Sri Lanka, boosted by tourism events and initiatives.
Closing his address, Ambassador Amza extended greetings to the Sri Lankan community in Saudi Arabia and provided an optimistic overview of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery, including reduced inflation, stabilized currency, increased remittances, and significant growth in tourism and reserves.
The reception, attended by senior Saudi officials, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and members of the Sri Lankan community, underscored the deepening ties between the two nations. Source: Arab News
