May 26, Colombo (LNW): New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters, currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka, has welcomed the island nation’s application to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a significant move in Sri Lanka’s efforts to deepen its engagement with the wider Asia-Pacific economic framework.
During his visit, Mr Peters met with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, with whom he engaged in wide-ranging discussions encompassing bilateral trade, investment prospects, regional security, and development cooperation. The two leaders underscored the importance of fostering mutually beneficial partnerships, with a particular focus on sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and public health.
The New Zealand delegation, led by Mr Peters—who also serves as Minister of Foreign Affairs—arrived in Sri Lanka on Saturday. The visit aims to build upon the enduring relationship between the two countries, rooted in shared values, regional collaboration, and longstanding development partnerships.
In a formal statement issued during the visit, Mr Peters highlighted the legacy of cooperation between the two nations, particularly in areas of food security, disaster response, and community resilience. He also announced the launch of a new bilateral initiative, the Sustainable Water and Livelihoods project, which is set to enhance both health and income outcomes for farming communities in Sri Lanka.
Mr Peters noted that “increasing engagement by New Zealand enterprises in Sri Lanka reflects a growing confidence in the country’s potential.” He indicated that New Zealand firms are eyeing opportunities across a number of sectors, with new ventures expected to generate tangible benefits for Sri Lankan partners and communities.
The discussions also touched upon institutional cooperation between the two governments, particularly in the areas of food safety, border control, and regulatory frameworks. Peters stressed the value of harmonised standards in facilitating smoother trade and greater market access for Sri Lankan exports.
Acknowledging the broader geopolitical climate, both parties exchanged views on the Indo-Pacific region’s evolving security dynamics. They reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration in immigration, customs, policing, and defence—pillars seen as essential to regional stability.
As part of the visit, New Zealand reaffirmed its educational and professional development support for Sri Lanka. Several short-term trade policy training opportunities will be extended to Sri Lankan officials under the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme, further deepening institutional linkages.
Mr Peters also made a point to celebrate the cultural and sporting ties between the two nations, praising the camaraderie and competitive spirit shown during a recent visit by New Zealand’s under-85kg men’s rugby team. He expressed hope for more such exchanges on both the rugby and cricket fields, involving men’s and women’s teams alike.
Concluding his remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Peters extended his appreciation to the Sri Lankan government for the warm welcome extended to his delegation, expressing optimism for a strengthened partnership built on mutual respect and shared ambition.
