High Commissioner Bogollagama discusses strengthening UK-Sri Lanka Trade and Economic Relations with the UK PM’s Trade Envoy

High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the UK, Rohitha Bogollagama called upon the Lord Davies of Abersoch, the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka at the Devonshire House on April 9, 2024. The discussions centered on bolstering bilateral trade and economic relations and the cooperation between the two countries. Lord Davies acknowledged the positive developments that have now been registered in Sri Lanka’s economic trajectory under the leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The key points discussed in the meeting include;

The UK’s revision of the travel advisory on Sri Lanka on April 5, 2024 in a positive manner, indicating a growing confidence in the country’s economic prospects, which will further boost Sri Lanka’s tourism. 

Sri Lanka’s proposal to initiate negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UK.  Sri Lanka will be itemizing this CEPA for further discussion at the Strategic Dialogue to be held in May.

Steps to increase the direct flight and the air connectivity between Sri Lanka and the UK, through both Sri Lankan Airlines and British Airways.

The feasibility of easing import regulations for tourist-related vehicles to Sri Lanka from the UK, particularly in the bus and van categories.

Lord Davies’s upcoming official visits to Sri Lanka in the months of September and December this year

The meeting highlighted the mutual commitment of the UK and Sri Lanka to nurture beneficial trade relations and pursue economic collaboration. Both parties expressed optimism about further deepening ties and capitalizing on opportunities for growth and development.

 

 

Sri Lanka High Commission
London

10 April 2024