The European Union Delegation on the GSP+ Monitoring Mission has expressed its appreciation for Sri Lanka’s recent policy reforms, particularly those aligning with the fundamental objectives of the GSP+ mechanism. This recognition came during a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya on Monday, where the EU team also offered guidance on Sri Lanka’s re-application process for GSP+ concessions and reiterated their readiness to support the country’s formal application.
Key topics discussed during the meeting included ongoing engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the importance of enhancing women’s participation in politics and the economy, and the need to improve support systems such as childcare, eldercare, and public transportation to foster broader inclusion. The discussions also addressed Sri Lanka’s major development priorities, including poverty alleviation, digital transformation, and the Government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative. Prime Minister Amarasuriya further emphasized legal reform efforts underway, such as new legislation to combat drug and human trafficking and the enactment of the Online Safety Act, as part of broader reconciliation and governance objectives.
The EU delegation was led by Charles Whiteley, Head of the South Asia Division of the European External Action Service, and included other senior officials. The meeting concluded with remarks from EU Ambassador to Sri Lanka Carmen Moreno, who reaffirmed the EU’s continued commitment to deepening its relationship with Sri Lanka across economic, cultural, and tourism sectors. Key Sri Lankan officials present included Prime Minister’s Secretary Pradeep Saputhanthri, Additional Secretary Sagarika Bogahawatta, and Sugeeshwara Gunaratna, Director General of the Europe and North America Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
