The UK’s Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Catherine West, has arrived in Sri Lanka to strengthen the relationship between the two nations through discussions with key officials on economic growth, anti-corruption, human rights, and national reconciliation. This visit is the first ministerial-level engagement since the formation of new governments in both countries. Catherine West emphasized the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, stating her commitment to driving forward their partnership. She highlighted the importance of economic and social development in ensuring sustainable growth and reiterated the UK’s dedication to tackling corruption, supporting human rights progress, addressing long-standing grievances, and taking action on climate and nature-related issues.
During her visit, the minister plans to engage with the British Council to discuss Sri Lanka’s potential as a regional hub for transnational education. Education remains a vital aspect of the bilateral relationship, and the minister is keen to expand the already growing partnership between the two countries in this sector. Catherine West also aims to promote trade opportunities by launching export procedure handbooks designed to help Sri Lankan businesses access the UK market more effectively under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme. This scheme, which benefits 65 developing countries, simplifies trade rules, cuts tariffs, and removes conditions, thereby providing enhanced access to UK markets.
Catherine West will also travel to Jaffna, where she will engage with local political leaders and civil society organizations. Her visit underscores the UK’s ongoing support for post-conflict rehabilitation, human rights, minority rights, and climate resilience in the region. The minister will visit the only FCDO-funded climate adaptation project in Sri Lanka, which is focused on addressing groundwater depletion and its effects on agriculture and local communities. This visit aligns with the UK’s broader commitment to addressing climate change and fostering sustainability in developing nations.
The minister will meet Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath to discuss reform agendas and explore ways to deepen collaboration between the two countries. The visit is also expected to emphasize the shared ambitions of both governments to address pressing global and regional challenges, including economic recovery, human rights, and environmental sustainability. UK High Commissioner Andrew Patrick highlighted the significance of this visit, stating that it reflects the strong and dynamic partnership between the UK and Sri Lanka, with a focus on strengthening collaboration in the months to come.
