Sri Lanka is set to establish a dynamic platform for cross-border partnerships and business growth. As globalization accelerates and trade barriers diminish, new opportunities emerge for economic and diplomatic collaboration.
Round Table Sri Lanka is hosting “Bridging Borders: Fostering Regional Cooperation and Global Impact,” a landmark fireside chat on 23 May at Monarch Imperial, Sri Jayawardenepura, Kotte. This event, part of the Asia Pacific Area (ASPA) Round Table Regional Meeting, will bring together 500-600 leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry experts from Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal to enhance trade, investment, and regional cooperation.
The fireside chat will be moderated by renowned business leader Peter de Almeida and feature distinguished panelists such as Aruna Warnakulasooriya (National Chamber of Commerce Sri Lanka Chairman), Shivkumar Eashwaran (Immediate Past President of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, Tamil Nadu), and Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal (Nepal Chamber of Commerce Chairman). Discussions will focus on boosting trade connectivity, overcoming bureaucratic challenges, and unlocking investment opportunities. Entrepreneurs will gain insights into market entry strategies, trade agreements, and funding avenues to facilitate smoother cross-border business expansion.
Beyond trade and investment, the event will spotlight Sri Lanka’s growing global influence in design and sustainability. A special session will feature industry pioneers such as Spa Ceylon Co-Founder Shalin Balasuriya, DWA Chairman Deepal Wickramasinghe, and Channa Daswatte of MICD Associates. They will discuss sustainable design trends, cultural integration, and innovative solutions positioning Sri Lanka as a regional leader in architecture and interior design.
Round Table Sri Lanka President Raveen Wickramasinghe emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “For the first time, key leaders from Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal will unite to explore trade, investment, and Sri Lanka’s influence in global design. This event will strengthen economic ties, encourage cultural exchange, and solidify Sri Lanka’s role in regional and global industries.”
ASPA Chairman Rahul Agrawal highlighted that the event presents a unique opportunity to build impactful collaborations across South Asia, fostering long-term progress in trade, design, and innovation.
The event will be inaugurated by Round Table International President Danielle Cusie, who will emphasize the global significance of this initiative in shaping the future of trade and innovation in South Asia.
Additionally, Bridging Borders will address Sri Lanka’s role in digital transformation and fintech, exploring how Sri Lankan start-ups and tech firms can collaborate with India and Nepal on fintech solutions, e-commerce, and digital infrastructure development.
A dedicated networking session will allow attendees to connect with industry leaders, diplomats, and business professionals, creating a platform for strategic alliances and business expansion.
With the support of Round Table Sri Lanka, this event is poised to become a key driver of economic and cultural diplomacy in South Asia. By fostering collaboration in trade, design, and digital innovation, it will establish lasting partnerships that promote progress and prosperity across the region.
Bridging Borders stands as a milestone event for economic and cultural growth, empowering businesses in Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal to explore new opportunities and strengthen regional cooperation for a more interconnected and prosperous South Asia.
