Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya met with the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Sri Lanka, H.E. Khaled Nasser Al Ameri, on 01 October at Temple Trees.
At the outset, the Prime Minister welcomed the Ambassador and expressed her appreciation for the support extended by the Government of the United Arab Emirates to Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah.
During the meeting, the Ambassador conveyed an invitation from the Government of the United Arab Emirates to Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya to participate in the UN Water Conference scheduled to be held in the UAE in December.
Both sides discussed challenges related to water management and water security, emphasising the importance of developing sustainable and long-term solutions to address water-related issues.
Attention was also drawn to the importance of skilled labour migration, with a focus on strengthening opportunities for Sri Lankan skilled workers in international employment markets.
The UAE expressed its interest in supporting Sri Lanka’s vocational and technical education sector, while also exploring opportunities for cooperation in agricultural technology and related fields.
The Ambassador further highlighted the interest of UAE investors in Sri Lanka’s port and aviation sectors. He noted the potential for Sri Lanka to develop into a regional aviation maintenance hub, creating new opportunities for investment and skills development.
The discussions also focused on further strengthening and expanding bilateral relations and cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates.
The meeting was attended by Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister; Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister; and officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism.
Prime Minister’s Media Division