Japan pledges support for Sri Lanka’s economic revival efforts

• Japanese Ambassador highlights lessons from Japan

In a significant demonstration of solidarity, the Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka MIZUKOSHI Hideaki, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s economic revival during a keynote address at the Granbell Hotel in Colombo yesterday. 

Drawing parallels between Japan’s historical trajectory and Sri Lanka’s current economic challenges, Ambassador MIZUKOSHI underscored the potential for collaboration and shared learning between the two nations.

Delivering a keynote address at a panel discussion on ‘Economic Development and Modernisation with Lessons from Japan’ chaired by President Ranil Wickremesinghe and organised by the ‘Geopolitical Cartographer’ highlighted Japan’s remarkable journey from post-war devastation to economic powerhouse. 

President Wickremesinghe’s initiative, the Geopolitical Cartographer, aims to foster research and analysis of geopolitical and geo-economic developments, particularly in the Indian Ocean region.

Ambassador MIZUKOSHI offered insights into Japan’s historical challenges and its subsequent economic resurgence, emphasising the pivotal role of leadership and strategic planning. 

He also acknowledged the contribution of the late former President J.R. Jayawardene, whose advocacy at the San Francisco Peace Conference played a crucial role in Japan’s reintegration into the global community post-World War II.

Furthermore, Ambassador MIZUKOSHI commended Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts towards economic reform, particularly in anti-corruption initiatives. Japan pledged support for these endeavours, extending financial aid through the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to boost anti-corruption measures in Sri Lanka.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of nurturing competitive industries and developing comprehensive industrial policies to drive Sri Lanka’s economic growth. 

Ambassador MIZUKOSHI highlighted Japan’s readiness to provide support through institutions like the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and expressed hope for future investment opportunities to strengthen bilateral economic ties.

Following the keynote address, Ambassador MIZUKOSHI joined other distinguished guests, including Azusa Kubota from the United Nations Development Program and Senior Professor H.D. Karunaratne from University of Colombo, in a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Ganeshan Wignaraja. The panel, attended by prominent figures from politics, academia, and the diplomatic corps, further explored avenues for collaboration and knowledge exchange between Japan and Sri Lanka.

The event marked a significant step towards fostering closer ties between Japan and Sri Lanka, with a shared commitment to economic development and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.