Sri Lanka, UAE explore deeper trade ties and port sector cooperation

Thursday, 14 May 2026 00:20 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Bilateral trade between two countries stands at around $ 1.5 b
UAE firm eyes opportunities linked to Port of Colombo
Talks cover CEPA, maritime connectivity and aviation cooperation
UAE expresses interest in SriLankan Airlines maintenance operations

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Sri Lanka yesterday discussed expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation, with a focus on ports, aviation, maritime connectivity, and a proposed trade agreement between the two countries.

The discussions took place during a meeting between UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka Khaled Nasser Al Ameri and Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe.

Both sides reviewed growing economic ties between the two countries, with bilateral trade currently estimated at around $ 1.5 billion. The UAE remains Sri Lanka’s seventh-largest export destination and third-largest import partner.

During the discussions, the UAE Ambassador highlighted interest by Abu Dhabi Ports Company in opportunities connected to the Port of Colombo.

Minister Samarasinghe said Sri Lanka was also offering investment opportunities linked to both the Port of Colombo and the Port of Trincomalee as the Government seeks to strengthen the country’s logistics and maritime sectors.

The talks also covered maritime and aviation cooperation, including discussions on the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Sri Lanka and the UAE.

The UAE side additionally expressed interest in expanding cooperation with SriLankan Airlines, particularly in aircraft maintenance and related technical services.

Officials from the Trade Ministry and the Department of Commerce also attended the meeting.