July 05, Colombo (LNW): As part of ongoing efforts to foster economic diplomacy in Africa, Sri Lankan Ambassador Kananathan recently held discussions with Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio in Freetown regarding potential investment opportunities.
President Bio lauded Ambassador Kananathan’s role as an election observer during the 2023 Presidential Elections, recognising his dedication to enhancing diplomatic and economic ties between Sri Lanka and Sierra Leone. Their dialogue centred on identifying areas for collaboration, with both parties agreeing to boost efforts to achieve mutual benefits for their nations.
The President expressed his gratitude for the significant investments from Sri Lanka in Sierra Leone, highlighting the substantial venture by Browns Investments Ltd, a part of the LOLC Group.
This project, Sunbird Bioenergy (SL) Ltd, oversees a 23,500-hectare sugarcane plantation and operates a facility with the capacity to produce 22 million litres of ethanol annually.
This ethanol, a key ingredient in many alcoholic beverages, marks one of the largest sugarcane agricultural projects on the African continent, showcasing the productive economic partnership between the two countries.
Sierra Leone presents attractive investment prospects in various sectors including mining, manufacturing, agriculture, maritime, aviation, fisheries, and energy.
President Bio invited Sri Lankan investors to explore these opportunities, promoting a mutually beneficial relationship that would further strengthen economic ties.
Additionally, Sierra Leone’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2024-2025 term highlights the country’s increasing influence on the global stage.
