Sri Lanka has expressed its interest in re-applying for the European Union’s Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) once the current cycle concludes, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath said.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Minister stated that the matter was discussed during a meeting with Paola Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the European External Action Service. Pampaloni is currently in Sri Lanka to co-chair the 27th Session of the EU–Sri Lanka Joint Commission.
During the meeting, Minister Herath conveyed Sri Lanka’s deep appreciation for the EU GSP trade facility, noting that it has played a significant role in supporting the country’s economic growth and export sector.
He also briefed Pampaloni and her delegation on Sri Lanka’s recent economic progress and ongoing legislative reforms. These include the proposed repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), amendments to the Online Safety Act (OSA), and steps taken to advance reconciliation by strengthening independent national institutions such as the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), the Office for Reparations (OR), and the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation (ONUR).
The discussions further addressed the impact of Cyclone Ditwah and the country’s ongoing recovery efforts, with the Minister expressing gratitude for the European Union’s continued support.
In addition to bilateral matters, both sides exchanged views on global political and economic developments, geopolitical challenges, and broader regional and international issues. The meeting reaffirmed their shared commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and the multilateral system.
