Sri Lanka and Oman have taken steps to strengthen economic ties, with discussions held on expanding trade and investment cooperation between the two countries.
Foreign Trade and International Cooperation Adviser at the Ministry of Commerce of the Sultanate of Oman, Mr. Pankaj Khimji, accompanied by Ambassador of Oman, Ahmed bin Ali bin Saeid Alrashidi, met with Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co‑operative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe, in Colombo on Tuesday.
Talks focused on identifying new opportunities for collaboration, with both sides expressing strong interest in deepening bilateral economic relations. Mr. Khimji conveyed Oman’s keen interest in exploring investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, particularly in agriculture and energy, while also seeking to enhance trade flows.
Minister Samarasinghe welcomed the initiative, highlighting Sri Lanka’s broad range of investment prospects across multiple sectors. He invited Omani investors to explore opportunities currently available, including in the Ceylon Shipping Corporation, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
During the meeting, Mr. Khimji also expressed Oman’s interest in exploring the possibility of a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Sri Lanka to significantly boost trade and investment. Minister Samarasinghe welcomed the proposal and agreed to consider the matter.
The meeting underscored the mutual commitment of both nations to advancing economic cooperation and creating new avenues for trade, investment, and business partnerships.
Also present were K. A. Vimalenthirarajah, Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co‑operative Development, and Charitha Yattogoda, Director of Commerce of the Department of Commerce. (Newswire)