By: Staff Writer
September 07, Colombo (LNW): In its first move to broaden foreign relations since the United States imposed a 20 percent tariff hike on Sri Lankan exports, the new government has approved the establishment of formal diplomatic relations with Antigua and Barbuda, a small but strategically positioned Caribbean nation.
Cabinet approval for the initiative, announced by Foreign Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, marks Colombo’s 14th formal diplomatic engagement in the Latin American and Caribbean region. The decision reflects a wider strategy to diversify Sri Lanka’s global partnerships, particularly as the island nation navigates shifting trade dynamics and external economic pressures.
Antigua and Barbuda, despite its modest size, holds significant clout within multilateral forums. As a member of the Commonwealth, the United Nations, the Organisation of American States, and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), the country offers Colombo an avenue to build solidarity with other small island economies facing similar vulnerabilities from climate change and global economic shifts.
Analysts note that strengthening ties with Antigua and Barbuda could also boost Sri Lanka’s presence in the Caribbean trade bloc CARICOM, opening the door for new commercial, tourism, and investment opportunities. “While trade volumes between the two countries remain negligible today, diplomatic recognition is the first step toward expanding networks in the Caribbean and Latin America,” one senior trade expert observed.
Tourism is expected to be an area of early collaboration. Both nations rely heavily on international tourism revenues and are keen to explore knowledge exchange in hospitality management, sustainable island tourism, and direct marketing in non-traditional markets. Aviation linkages, although presently indirect, could also be developed through codeshare agreements, creating new travel routes for Sri Lankan travelers heading westward and Caribbean visitors looking east.
Beyond economics, diplomatic ties are likely to enhance cooperation in climate diplomacy. With Antigua and Barbuda frequently voicing concerns over rising sea levels and natural disasters in global forums, Colombo stands to gain an ally in pushing for international climate finance and technology transfer to safeguard vulnerable island states.
The timing of the initiative is notable. Following Washington’s tariff hike, Sri Lanka has been under pressure to reduce dependence on traditional Western markets. Establishing ties with Antigua and Barbuda signals Colombo’s intent to hedge risks by engaging with emerging and geographically diverse partners.
As Sri Lanka charts its post-tariff course, the move underscores a pragmatic shift: cultivating allies wherever mutual benefit can be found, regardless of size. If effectively pursued, ties with Antigua and Barbuda could serve as a gateway for Sri Lanka into the wider Caribbean—opening fresh diplomatic, trade, and tourism prospects while strengthening the island nation’s global bargaining power.
