The 3rd Japan–Sri Lanka Policy Dialogue was held today (30) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism in Colombo, serving as a key platform to deepen bilateral cooperation.
The two sides exchanged views on a range of foreign policy and bilateral matters, with discussions particularly focused on enhancing economic ties through trade and investment.
Sri Lanka briefed the Japanese delegation on its current economic challenges and efforts toward achieving debt sustainability, while expressing deep appreciation for Japan’s vital role as Co-Chair of the Official Creditor Committee (OCC).
The value of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) was also acknowledged, with both parties noting its significant contribution to Sri Lanka’s socio-economic development.
Labour migration was a key topic, given that over 63,000 Sri Lankans reside in Japan. Both countries explored sustainable frameworks to support mutually beneficial labour mobility.
Additionally, the dialogue emphasized strengthening defence and security cooperation between the two nations.
The meeting was co-chaired by Sashikala Premawardhane, Additional Secretary for Bilateral Political Affairs (East) of Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Miyamoto Shingo, Director General of the Southeast and Southwest Asian Affairs Department and Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
