ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka and the Philippines concluded the third spherical of political consultations in Colombo, with each international locations pledging to increase cooperation throughout a variety of sectors forward of the sixty fifth anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2026, the island nation’s International Ministry stated.
International Secretary Aruni Ranaraja throughout the assembly concluded on Friday expressed hope that Manila would contemplate reopening its resident mission in Colombo. She additionally famous that Sri Lanka seems to be ahead to working with the Philippines because it prepares to tackle the ASEAN chairmanship.
The talks centered on boosting cooperation in agriculture, labour, commerce, fisheries, tradition, defence, and training, whereas additionally addressing broader regional and multilateral points.
“Precedence was given to agriculture, with particular deal with the coconut and plantation industries, alongside collaboration in know-how switch, irrigation, meals safety, and rice analysis,” Sri Lanka’s International Ministry stated in an announcement.
“Fisheries and aquaculture had been additionally recognized as areas for deeper engagement, with Sri Lanka welcoming the chance to be taught from the Philippines’ superior experience, significantly in ‘milkfish’ breeding know-how.”
“Each side additionally emphasised the significance of labour sector cooperation, with Sri Lanka recognizing the Philippines’ world management in migration governance. Discussions highlighted the necessity for the early conclusion of the draft MoU on Labour Cooperation, in addition to information sharing on pre-departure preparation, regulated recruitment and deployment and welfare of migrant employees.”
On commerce and funding, each international locations agreed to advertise higher collaboration between Sri Lanka’s Export Growth Board and the Philippines’ Heart for Worldwide Commerce Expositions and Missions (CITEM).
The assembly was co-chaired by Sri Lanka’s Extra Secretary for Bilateral Political Affairs-East, Sashikala Premawardhane, and the Philippines’ Undersecretary for Coverage, Ma Hellen B. De La Vega. Senior diplomats and officers from each international locations attended the discussions.
The subsequent spherical of consultations is scheduled to be held in Manila in 2026. (Colombo/September 13/2025)
