The delegation from the Sri Lanka-Canada Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce met with His Excellency U. L. Mohammed Jauhar, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Canada, on October 18th to discuss key areas for enhancing trade and collaboration between the two countries.
During the meeting, President of the Sri Lanka-Canada Business Council, Priyantha Chandrasekera, outlined the objectives of the delegation’s visit. He emphasized the need for greater support in facilitating exports from Sri Lanka to Canada, as well as strengthening connections with Canadian companies to explore potential partnerships and joint ventures. Chandrasekera highlighted that the targeted sectors for collaboration include agriculture, IT/BPO, tourism, education, and exports.
Additionally, the delegation requested the High Commission’s support in organizing a Canadian business delegation, accompanied by a minister, to visit Sri Lanka, as a way to deepen bilateral business ties. They also called for initiatives to boost tourism from Canada to Sri Lanka, including promoting the island as a destination for cruise ships. Furthermore, Chandrasekera sought the High Commission’s assistance in connecting with Canadian universities interested in establishing joint ventures and setting up campuses in Sri Lanka, as well as identifying funds and credit lines in Canada that could support Sri Lankan startups.
In response, High Commissioner Jauhar acknowledged the potential for increased collaboration, particularly in sectors such as canola oil production, accounting services, and coconut-based products, which have significant market opportunities in Canada. He expressed his willingness to support the delegation’s initiatives and offered to facilitate connections with relevant Canadian businesses and institutions.
Following the productive discussions, High Commissioner Jauhar hosted the delegation for a dinner, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.
