COLOMBO, 02 October 2026 – Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya held a significant meeting with the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Sri Lanka, H.E. Khaled Nasser Al Ameri, at Temple Trees on 01 October, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, exploring new avenues for cooperation, and addressing critical shared challenges.
The discussions spanned a range of vital areas, from humanitarian support and global water security to skilled labour migration and investment opportunities in key Sri Lankan sectors.
Appreciation for Cyclone Ditwah Support
At the commencement of the meeting, Prime Minister Amarasuriya extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Al Ameri and expressed her sincere appreciation for the prompt and generous support provided by the Government of the United Arab Emirates to Sri Lanka following the recent devastating Cyclone Ditwah. This gesture underscored the strong bond of friendship and solidarity between the two nations.
Invitation to UN Water Conference and Water Security Dialogue
A key highlight of the meeting was the Ambassador’s conveyance of an official invitation from the UAE Government to Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya to participate in the upcoming UN Water Conference. The prestigious conference is scheduled to be held in the UAE in December, highlighting the global importance of water issues.
Both leaders engaged in a focused discussion on the pressing challenges related to water management and water security. They collectively emphasised the critical need for developing sustainable and long-term solutions to effectively address water-related issues, which are increasingly vital for national and regional stability.
Boosting Skilled Labour and Vocational Training
Attention was also drawn to the crucial importance of skilled labour migration. The discussions particularly focused on strengthening opportunities for Sri Lankan skilled workers in international employment markets, with the UAE being a significant destination. This aligns with Sri Lanka’s efforts to empower its workforce and enhance foreign exchange earnings.
Further demonstrating its commitment to Sri Lanka’s human capital development, the UAE expressed keen interest in supporting Sri Lanka’s vocational and technical education sector. This potential collaboration could lead to enhanced training programmes and certifications, better preparing Sri Lankan youth for global job markets.
UAE Investment Interest in Key Sectors
Ambassador Al Ameri also highlighted the growing interest of UAE investors in Sri Lanka’s strategic port and aviation sectors. He pointed out Sri Lanka’s significant potential to evolve into a regional aviation maintenance hub. This development could unlock substantial new opportunities for foreign direct investment, technology transfer, and high-skilled job creation within the country.
Beyond these areas, opportunities for cooperation in agricultural technology and related fields were also explored, recognising the importance of food security and technological advancement in agriculture for both nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The meeting ultimately underscored the shared commitment to further strengthening and expanding the already robust bilateral relations and cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates across various sectors.
The discussions were attended by Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister; Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister; and officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the engagement.
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