The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Bangladesh, Mr. Dharmapala Weerakkody, accompanied by Second Secretary Ms. Gayanga Dias, paid a courtesy call on the State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, Ms. Shama Obaed Islam, MP, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh on 28 April 2026.
During the cordial meeting, the two sides engaged in constructive discussions on a broad range of bilateral matters of mutual interest. Particular emphasis was placed on further strengthening cooperation in the fields of cultural and sports diplomacy, which directly contribute to enhancing people-to-people contacts between the two friendly nations. Discussions also covered key sectors including trade, investment, pharmaceuticals, information and communication technology (ICT), education, and tourism.
High Commissioner Weerakkody noted with satisfaction the steady growth in trade and investment ties between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. He observed that Sri Lanka is emerging as an increasingly attractive destination for Bangladeshi tourists and underscored the considerable scope for further collaboration in the tourism sector. He also emphasized the importance of expediting the conclusion of the proposed Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two countries, with a view to facilitating greater two-way trade and unlocking the full potential of bilateral economic engagement for the mutual benefit of both nations.
The State Minister Shama Obaed, while reviewing various aspects of ongoing bilateral cooperation, highlighted the importance of further expanding collaboration in priority areas such as trade, health, education, tourism, connectivity, culture, and sports. She underscored the significant untapped potential in bilateral relations and noted Bangladesh’s export strengths in sectors such as jute, pharmaceuticals, leather goods, and information technology, which offer promising opportunities for increased exports to Sri Lanka.
The State Minister further reaffirmed that the Government of Bangladesh attaches high importance to fostering constructive and mutually beneficial relations with its regional partners. In this regard, she reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to revitalizing SAARC for the greater benefit of the peoples of the region.
Ms. Ishrat Jahan, Director General of the South Asia Division, along with other senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, were also present at the meeting.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Dhaka
03 May 2026
