EDB, UK High Commission promotes Sri Lanka Expo 2012 in London

The Sri Lanka High Commission, London, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, Colombo, held a Business/Networking Event for British Companies on 27 September 2011 at Asia House, London, to launch Expo 2012 and engage British Business and Industry on a UK Trade & Investment Mission to Sri Lanka during Expo 2012, 28 - 30 March.

This business forum entitled “Partnering with the Hub of Asia” which was attended by a wide representation from the UK trade, industry, government, banking sector, media, leisure industry etc. commenced with an opening welcome address by Dr. Chris Nonis High Commissioner for Sri Lanka who focused on the plethora of commercial and economic opportunities that have emerged in the wake of the restoration of peace and political stability in the island. He emphasised the progressive socio- economic indices and the growth in infrastructure, national income, re-construction in the North and the East and other development projects taking place in Sri Lanka in the aftermath of peace noting in particular the opportunities for British Business to engage in the sectors of power, energy, road construction, ICT, education, manufacturing, trade and agri-business in particular.

The High Commissioner reiterated that Sri Lanka is focused on becoming the commercial, shipping, aviation IT, and services hub of the region.

Expo 2012 would be a catalyst event to bring in international trading and investment partners to Sri Lanka. British Companies who wish to engage anew or replenish existing ties with the Island’s commerce and economic agents were strongly encouraged to take this opportunity of visiting Sri Lanka during the mega trade and investment forum organised in Colombo during 28-30 March 2012.

Representatives of Asia House, PathFinder Trade and Invest Gateway Asia and British – Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce who are supporting the efforts of the Trade Section of the Sri Lanka High Commission to launch a UK Business Mission to Sri Lanka during Expo 2012 also addressed the gathering regarding the forthcoming visit to Sri Lanka.

The Key Note address at the event was given by EDB Chairman and CEO Janaka Ratnayake, which comprised a detailed presentation of the Expo 2012 as well as the bilateral trade relations between Sri Lanka and UK, the global outreach through promotions of the event.