During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening long-standing bilateral relations and enhancing trade and economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and the UAE.
Discussions focused on the growing economic ties between the two countries, with bilateral trade currently valued at approximately US$1.5 billion. The UAE is presently Sri Lanka’s seventh-largest export destination and third-largest import partner.
Key Sri Lankan exports to the UAE include tea, garments, fuel oil, chocolate and coconut-based products, while major imports from the UAE include petroleum, sugar cane, copper products, dried and salted fish, and cement.
Ambassador Al Ameri highlighted the UAE’s strategic role as a global maritime hub linking the East, West and the Middle East, while also emphasizing the importance of maritime connectivity. He noted that major UAE maritime companies, including Abu Dhabi Ports and DP World, are interested in opportunities in Sri Lanka.
In response, Minister Samarasinghe stated that investment opportunities are available at both the Port of Colombo and the Port of Trincomalee, adding that Requests for Proposals (RFPs) would be issued in due course.
The UAE Ambassador also underscored the strong air connectivity between the two countries, noting that 17 daily passenger and cargo flights currently operate between the UAE and Colombo. He further expressed the UAE’s willingness to strengthen cooperation with SriLankan Airlines, particularly in aircraft maintenance and repair services.
Ambassador Al Ameri also acknowledged the contribution of the Sri Lankan expatriate community in the UAE to the UAE economy and the significance of worker remittances to Sri Lanka.
The discussions additionally covered the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Sri Lanka and the UAE. Minister Samarasinghe stated that the government is currently reviewing existing free trade agreements through a high-level committee and assured that the proposed agreement would be considered based on the committee’s recommendations and Cabinet policy direction.
