FCCISL meets Indian High Commission officials

The Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) President Keerthi Gunawardane along with members met the Deputy High Commissioner of India Vinod K. Jacob and the First Secretary Vivek Sharma recently.

The Chamber officials had a very fruitful and cordial discussion with these Indian officials. FCCISL team included board members Ruwan de Silva, Abbas Kamurdeen, Saranga Wijeratne, Dhammika Lokuge and the Acting Secretary General Tilan Wijesuriya.

FCCISL and the Indian High Commission had a very close relationship over the years. After the COVID-19 FCCISL decided to have a physical meeting and discuss the matters relevant to both countries which can benefit the business and industries.

“During the discussions we pointed out the great potential to develop tourism which can benefit both the countries in a significant manner. The Indian High Commission officials totally agreed to this and discussed a very valid point,” FCCISL said. 

Indian officials said Sri Lanka should allow the Indian Rupees (INR) to be used in Sri Lanka and vice versa for Sri Lankan currency. In addition they pointed out the need of allowing the Indian local credit cards to be used in Sri Lanka and this move will reduce the demand for USD which will be a direct benefit especially to Sri Lanka at this juncture. 

The Indian High Commission officials indicated that the UAE, France and Mauritius already allowed Indians to use the INR and the local credit cards in their respective countries. This will allow more spending which can directly benefit the businesses.

In addition to tourism, FCCISL and the Indian High Commission officials also discussed how to create benefits to both the countries using the FTA. 

Food and energy security were identified as two important areas of concern to both the countries and the Deputy High Commissioner assured the possibility of sharing the knowledge that India has in these sectors with Sri Lanka.

FCCISL was the focal point during the past for various scholarship programs offered by the Indian Government. Indian officials agreed to update with the information in the future and create more opportunities for FCCISL members.