Foreign Minister Ali Sabry urged the business community to demand policy consistency across political parties, emphasising the need to minimise social division, populist policies and policy inconsistency.
He stressed the need for policy consistency to attract investors and outlined the positive trajectory in tourism. He opined this at the Chamber of Young Lankan Entrepreneurs (COYLE) hosted Annual Diplomats’ Evening held in February at Hilton Blue Colombo.
He also addressed the decline in Sri Lanka’s GDP contribution from exports and expressed gratitude for COYLE’s efforts to expand the export market. He highlighted success stories in Africa, where Sri Lankan companies made a positive impact by contributing to renewable energy in Uganda and expanding the tea industry in Kenya. Recognising COYLE’s dedication to expanding the export market, the Foreign Ministry commended COYLE’s efforts. The event also highlighted the upcoming visit of young Indian delegates in late December, featuring the significance of enhancing ties between the two nations for mutual development and prosperity. Additionally, discussions centred around the diplomatic community’s impactful role in supporting local businesses’ entrepreneurial endeavours.
As COYLE will be celebrating its 25th anniversary on March 10, 2024, Chairman Rasith Wickramasinghe reflected on its growth and emphasised its commitment to progressive leadership.
The Diplomats’ Evening served as a platform to foster bilateral relations, encourage business opportunities, and unite members and partners. The Diplomats’ Evening 2024 stood as a beacon of collaboration, innovation and shared aspirations for a prosperous and united Sri Lanka.