SL-UAE Joint Commission Concludes: Focus on Trade, Investment & Diversification 📈

• The Second Session of the Sri Lanka–UAE Joint Commission successfully concluded in Colombo on Nov 4, reconvening after 11 years and signaling strengthened bilateral relations. • Economic Consolidation: Sri Lanka highlighted the importance of further consolidating economic and trade relations with the UAE. • UAE's Key Interest: The UAE conveyed willingness to step up cooperation in energy, investments, financial services, and textiles, emphasizing the importance of economic diversification. They also showed keen interest in enhancing trade and tourism, including infrastructure development for high-end tourism. • Landmark Agreements Noted: The Commission acknowledged the recent conclusion of two key agreements: • Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA). • MoU on the establishment of the UAE–Sri Lanka Joint Business Council. • Comprehensive Scope: Discussions covered a wide range of cooperation areas including political, economic, labour, financial, transport, health, customs, and defence sectors. • The Third Session of the Joint Commission is scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi.