Germany’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Dr. Felix Neumann, has welcomed the Government’s anti-corruption efforts while stressing the need for further reforms to improve the ease of doing business and modernise public services.
Speaking at the Sri Lanka–German Business Forum 2026 held in Colombo on Thursday, Ambassador Neumann said Sri Lanka needs a clear strategy focused on business facilitation, public sector modernisation, and policy consistency.
“While the Government has taken strong strides in anti-corruption measures, challenges remain. The announced improvements are necessary, with a clear strategy in ease of doing business, modernisation of the public sector and processes, as well as consistent policies. We are hopeful that these reforms will take shape in the near future,” he said.
The Ambassador noted that Sri Lanka has been a strong advocate of multilateralism and has played an active role in raising concerns related to maritime security.
“These values are an essential part of doing business where predictability is important,” he added.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya attended the forum as Chief Guest, while Chief Delegate of the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce (AHK Sri Lanka), Martin Klose, was also present.
Ambassador Neumann highlighted the resilience shown by both Sri Lankan and German businesses in overcoming challenges and adapting to changing circumstances.
“Both Sri Lanka and Germany have had more than their fair share of difficulties and, of course, successes. Both business communities and entrepreneurs remained resilient, facing every challenge and using opportunities,” he said.
He also identified Sri Lanka’s English-speaking and educated workforce as a key factor behind the country’s achievements.
Commenting on changing global dynamics, the Ambassador said Sri Lanka’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean places it in a strong position to benefit from growing East-West trade.
“In a changing global world order where traditional political relations are being reviewed, there is an opportunity for both countries, especially as Sri Lanka is geographically strategically located, which becomes increasingly vital in East-West trade,” he said.
He further noted that Germany is seeking to expand its network of international partners and believes Sri Lanka is well positioned to play a greater role in that effort.
“Germany is looking at expanding its network of new partners and Sri Lanka is well placed to be such a partner, especially for Germany. In this regard as well, Sri Lanka and Germany are a good fit, and these opportunities should be further explored by both countries,” he added.
The Ambassador also highlighted Germany’s longstanding contribution to Sri Lanka’s vocational training sector, noting that German-supported initiatives dating back to 1959 have helped develop a skilled workforce with internationally recognised qualifications.