Thursday Sep 24, 2026
Thursday Sep 24, 2026
Thursday, 24 September 2026 00:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Chief Guest Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya (right) with Global Enterprise Connect Co-Founder and CEO Ronak Samantaray
Sri Lanka this week welcomed global technology leaders as the Grand Finale of the Global CIO Forum 2026 was hosted at Cinnamon Life Colombo, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to position itself as a premier destination for digital innovation and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism.
The event brought together over 300 Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and ICT professionals from over 50 countries. The forum was facilitated by the Sri Lanka Embassy in Abu Dhabi together with its Consulate General in Dubai, reflecting the growing diplomatic engagement to promote Sri Lanka’s ICT sector internationally.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya graced the occasion as Chief Guest, highlighting the Government’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s digital ecosystem.
Senior dignitaries in attendance included Science and Technology Minister Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena, Sri Lankan Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Dr. Arusha Cooray, the Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai, and the Chief Adviser to the President on Digital Economy, among others.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Global Enterprise Connect CoFounder and CEO Ronan Samantaray, who highlighted the Forum’s role in fostering global collaboration among CIOs and ICT professionals. This was followed by an address by Dr. Amarasuriya, who spoke about the country’s digital transformation journey, acknowledging both the advancements made and the challenges that remain. She invited global industry leaders to explore opportunities in Sri Lanka, emphasising the nation’s readiness to embrace new partnerships and investments.
Ambassador Dr. Cooray extended a warm welcome to the international delegates, noting that the country’s ICT and BPM sector is currently the fastestgrowing service segment. She mentioned Sri Lanka’s competitive talent pool, innovation potential, and the Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for technologydriven growth.
Prof. Abeysena also addressed the gathering, outlining recent developments in the ICT sphere and reaffirming the Government’s focus on strengthening digital infrastructure, research, and industry collaboration.
The grand finale brought together CIOs, digital strategists, and technology innovators from across the world, offering a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and exploring investment opportunities. The successful hosting of the event further reinforces Sri Lanka’s ambition to emerge as a regional hub for digital enterprise and international conferences.
