The Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Catherine West, is visiting Sri Lanka on an official mission aimed at enhancing bilateral relations, fostering economic growth, and addressing key shared challenges. This visit marks the first high-level interaction between the newly formed governments of the UK and Sri Lanka, signaling a renewed commitment to collaboration.
During her visit, Minister West will unveil initiatives designed to strengthen UK-Sri Lanka trade ties, including the launch of export procedure handbooks. These resources are part of the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) and are expected to facilitate easier access for Sri Lankan businesses to the UK market, boosting exports and fostering economic growth for both nations.
“I am so pleased to make my first official visit to Sri Lanka and meet the new government so soon after they have taken office,” Minister West remarked. “The UK and Sri Lanka share a dynamic modern partnership, and I look forward to exploring our potential to grow through trade, economic collaboration, and education.”
A key highlight of the visit is the Minister’s trip to Jaffna, where she will reaffirm the UK’s dedication to promoting human rights, reconciliation, and minority rights. She will engage with local political leaders and civil society organizations involved in post-conflict rehabilitation efforts. Additionally, Minister West will visit the only Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)-funded climate adaptation project in Sri Lanka, which addresses groundwater depletion and its impact on agriculture and local communities.
“Social and economic development are vital to sustained growth,” Minister West stated. “The UK remains steadfast in our commitment to tackling corruption, supporting human rights progress, and addressing the impacts of climate change.”
The visit will also highlight the growing education partnership between the UK and Sri Lanka. Minister West is set to meet with the British Council to discuss how Sri Lanka can further establish itself as a regional hub for transnational education (TNE). These discussions aim to build on existing collaborations and create new opportunities for students and educators.
UK High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick, emphasized the importance of the visit, stating, “Minister Catherine West’s visit marks an important moment in the relationship between our two countries. To see the Minister visit so soon after elections underscores the UK government’s commitment to strengthening our bilateral partnership.”
Patrick added that the visit reflects a shared ambition to deepen collaboration in areas such as economic reform, climate change, and human rights.
As part of the visit, Minister West will meet with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and other senior government officials to discuss strategies for inclusive economic growth, anti-corruption measures, human rights advancements, and national reconciliation. These discussions aim to build a robust foundation for a dynamic and modern partnership between the two nations.
This visit underscores the UK’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s journey towards sustainable growth and reform, marking a new chapter in the enduring relationship between the two countries.
