The Director and Head of Division for External Economic Policy covering South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, Mr. Tobias Pierlings, met with Secretary to the Prime Minister Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri at the Prime Minister’s Office today to discuss avenues for strengthening economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and Germany.
Welcoming Mr. Pierlings, Secretary to the Prime Minister Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri expressed appreciation for the continued support and cooperation extended by the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany toward Sri Lanka’s development and economic progress.
During the discussions, Mr. Pierlings highlighted the significance of the forthcoming Sri Lanka–German Business Forum 2026, organized by the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka. The three-day forum is expected to bring together approximately 350 senior stakeholders, including policymakers, business leaders, industry associations, and experts representing a range of strategic sectors from both countries. He noted that the forum would serve as an important platform to deepen bilateral economic engagement and generate mutual benefits for Sri Lanka and Germany.
The meeting also focused on the emerging growth of the information technology sector as a major contributor to Sri Lanka’s export economy. Both parties indicated willingness to explore potential collaboration to further strengthen technological and innovation-driven partnerships.
The discussions further covered skills development and vocational training in Sri Lanka, with particular attention given to the contributions of the Ceylon German Technical Training Institute in advancing technical education and workforce development.
The meeting was attended by H.E. Dr. Felix Neumann, Ambassador of Germany to Sri Lanka, along with officials from the German Embassy. Representing the Sri Lankan side were Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism.
Prime Minister’s Media Division