The Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Sri Lanka, Khaled Nasser AlAmeri, met Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe today to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed growing economic ties, with bilateral trade currently valued at approximately US$ 1.5 billion. The UAE remains Sri Lanka’s seventh-largest export destination and third-largest import partner.
The Ambassador highlighted interest from Abu Dhabi Ports Company in opportunities related to the Port of Colombo, while Minister Samarasinghe noted that further investment prospects are also available at the Port of Trincomalee.
Discussions also covered maritime connectivity, aviation cooperation, and the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries.
The UAE expressed interest in expanding collaboration with SriLankan Airlines, particularly in aircraft maintenance and related services.
Officials from the Trade Ministry and the Department of Commerce Sri Lanka were also present at the meeting.
