Thursday Aug 21, 2025
Thursday Aug 21, 2025
Thursday, 19 June 2025 03:20 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Government has stepped up its efforts to expedite the digitisation of the internal processes and enhance diplomatic and consular services at the Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Ministry.
This was revealed during a high-level discussion held on Tuesday at the Presidential Secretariat to advance digital reforms within the Ministry, which is supported by the Digital Economy Ministry as well.
Key areas of focus included digital management of foreign mission services, the introduction of expanded digital consular services and the establishment of a formal mechanism for services provided to migrant workers. Plans were also unveiled to introduce a user-friendly web interface, ensuring improved access to information and services for both domestic and international users.
The meeting also addressed simplifying procedures for Sri Lankan citizens abroad, such as submitting passport applications and other official documents. These reforms are expected to minimise administrative delays and significantly enhance user convenience.
The meeting, co-chaired by Digital Economy Deputy Minister Eranga Weerarathne and Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Deputy Minister Arun Hemachandra was attended by several senior officials, including; Digital Economy Ministry Acting Secretary Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Ministry Additional Secretary Prasad Piyaseena, Consular Affairs Division Director General Nirmala Paranawithana, Public Diplomacy Division Director General Thushara Rodrigo, and Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment Acting Additional General Manager (International Affairs) P.G.G.S. Yapa.
