Sri Lanka and Lithuania hold Inaugural Political Consultations in Colombo, unveiling New Areas for Enhanced Bilateral Engagement

Sri Lanka and Lithuania held their first bilateral political consultations in Colombo on 5 October 2026 and signed a memorandum establishing a framework for regular dialogue, according to Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry.

Deputy Foreign Minister Arun Hemachandra and Lithuanian Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Vidmantas Verbickas co-chaired the discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism.

The talks reviewed bilateral relations and opportunities for trade, investment and cooperation as the countries prepare to mark 30 years of diplomatic ties. Delegations also exchanged views on regional and international developments.

Hemachandra invited Lithuanian investors to consider renewable energy, logistics, tourism and digital technology opportunities in Sri Lanka. He linked that invitation to the country’s economic stabilisation and structural reforms.

Verbickas outlined Lithuania’s capabilities in financial technology, cyber security, life sciences, photonics and laser technology. Both delegations agreed to advance contacts between businesses, technology incubators and export-promotion agencies.

The discussions also addressed the potential for bilateral trade through the European Union’s GSP+ scheme. The sides agreed to begin talks on agreements covering trade, investment, technology, higher education, research and cultural relations.

University exchanges, technical training partnerships and student mobility were among the education areas considered. Tourism discussions focused on promotional activities intended to encourage visitors from the Baltic region.

Both sides reaffirmed commitments to international law, climate action, multilateral cooperation and work within the United Nations.

The memorandum was signed and exchanged by Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry Secretary Aruni Ranaraja and Verbickas alongside the consultations. It establishes a mechanism for continuing bilateral dialogue between the two governments.