United News of Bangladesh

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya has said the government is working closely with international partners to position Sri Lanka as a credible and reliable destination for sustainable and inclusive development, investment and tourism in South Asia. She made the remarks while addressing the inauguration of the South Asia Regional Conference of the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC) 2026 in Colombo as the chief guest. The three-day conference is being hosted by the Association of Consuls in Sri Lanka under the aegis of FICAC, reports Daily FT, a Sri Lankan daily. It has brought together more than 60 diplomats, business leaders and policymakers from across the region to strengthen cooperation and explore new pathways for sustainable development in South Asia. In her address, the prime minister said the choice of Sri Lanka as the host country is significant at a time when the government is intensifying engagement with international partners to rebuild confidence and reinforce the country’s standing as a dependable partner in the region. She also highlighted Sri Lanka’s vulnerability to climate change, referring to the recent impact of Cyclone Ditwah, and expressed appreciation for the support extended by international partners. Stressing that climate change is a global challenge, she said it requires collective action, shared responsibility and innovative solutions. Dr Amarasuriya further outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to improve public sector efficiency, transparency and accountability, strengthen national unity and respect for diversity, and advance digital governance to improve service delivery and public trust. She said the government is addressing economic, social and environmental challenges through a clear policy framework, with a focus on economic stability through fiscal discipline, sustainable debt management and productivity-enhancing reforms, alongside stronger social protection for the most vulnerable. Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Adviser Vijitha Herath, speaking as guest of honour, said the government is committed to promoting Sri Lanka as a sustainable tourism destination on the global stage while positioning the country as a stable and reliable international partner. Organised under the auspices of FICAC, the global body supporting consular practice and international cooperation, the conference aims to facilitate policy dialogue, business matchmaking and capacity building in support of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and foreign relations objectives. The conference programme noted that honorary consuls play a key role in translating diplomatic goals into practical partnerships, adding that FICAC and national consular associations are working to professionalise the role through expanded training and stronger public-private cooperation. Delegates are scheduled to attend a series of presentations on Sri Lanka on Tuesdayincluding sessions on rebuilding the country, foreign direct investment opportunities, the current economic outlook and future direction, and export prospects.