May 05, Colombo (LNW): The upcoming second meeting of the strategic dialogue between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom is slated to convene in Colombo on May 7, 2024, at the senior officials’ level.
The dialogue will focus on a comprehensive review of developments in foreign and security policies, alongside an assessment of progress within various realms of bilateral engagement.
These areas include trade, investment, tourism, climate change, environmental protection, migration, and maritime cooperation, among others.
Moreover, the meeting will delve into an evaluation of the collaborative efforts undertaken by both nations on the international stage, particularly within forums such as the United Nations and Commonwealth.
Notably, 2023 marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom.
The commemoration of this milestone witnessed the visit of Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, underscoring the enduring significance of the bilateral friendship.
Heading the Sri Lankan delegation at the second Strategic Dialogue will be Shobini Gunasekera, the Director-General of Europe and North America at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside bilateral discussions led by Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane.
On the UK side, the delegation will be spearheaded by Ben Meller, the Director of the India and Indian Ocean Directorate at the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO).
Joining him will be High Commissioner Andrew Patrick, Head of the Sri Lanka team at the FCDO, Humairaa Haita, and other officials from the High Commission, in collaboration with representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other pertinent government bodies.
