The consultations were convened following the agreement signed in December 2017 to formalise political dialogue between the two nations. The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Sugeeshwara Gunaratna, Director-General of the Europe & North America Division, while the Belgian side was headed by Birgit Stevens, Director-General for Bilateral Affairs of the Asia and Oceania Division.
Both sides undertook a comprehensive review of bilateral relations, covering political engagement, high-level exchanges, trade and investment, tourism, defence and maritime security cooperation, as well as scientific and cultural collaboration. Discussions also focused on disaster prevention, climate resilience, green transition initiatives and cooperation within multilateral fora. The two countries also explored plans to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2028.
Sri Lanka reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic ties with Belgium, particularly in trade, tourism and investment in sectors such as green energy, pharmaceuticals, ICT, ports and logistics. The delegations also discussed ongoing cooperation within the European Union, including Sri Lanka’s engagement under the GSP+ scheme, debt restructuring efforts and reforms undertaken with the support of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to ensure economic recovery.
Belgium welcomed Sri Lanka’s progress on economic stabilisation and institutional reforms, while Sri Lanka expressed appreciation for Belgium’s continued support within the EU and other international platforms. Sri Lanka also sought Belgium’s support for post-disaster rebuilding efforts following Cyclone Ditwah.
During the consultations, Sri Lanka briefed the Belgian side on steps being taken to strengthen good governance, national reconciliation and the rule of law. Regional and global developments were also reviewed, with both sides reiterating their commitment to multilateralism, respect for the UN Charter and international law.
Shared priorities such as climate action, ocean governance and maritime security were emphasised, alongside potential mutual support for candidacies within the United Nations system. Both countries agreed to hold Political Consultations on a regular basis, recognising their importance in advancing a modern and dynamic partnership.
The Sri Lankan delegation included Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU, Chandana Weerasena, and senior officials of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels. The Belgian delegation comprised William Asselborn, Director for the Asia & Oceania Department, and senior officials of the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation.
