Australian Trade Delegation 2023 set for “Journey of Exploration” to strengthen bilateral ties
Daily FT: The Sri Lanka and Australia Chamber of Commerce unveiled an unprecedented initiative that promises to further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Sri Lanka and Australia. Accordingly, under the banner of “A Journey of Exploration”, an exhilarating series of events is set to unfold, as the Chamber expects to host the high-profile Australian Trade Delegation 2023. This series of events is expected to be a captivating blend of exploration, cultural immersion, and economic collaboration, designed to forge stronger bonds between the two nations.
The event was from 4 to 10 September, this landmark event is being orchestrated by the Sri Lanka and Australia Chamber of Commerce, in close partnership with the Victoria State Government, alongside other notable stakeholders including the Export Development Board, National Chamber of Commerce, SLASSCOM, Port City, Hatch, and Orion City. The culmination of tireless efforts, this initiative is poised to usher in a new era of prosperity for both nations.
The Australian Trade Delegation 2023 included a distinguished roster of 11 representatives, including notable figures from the Aboriginal Economic Development Group (AEDG), the Victoria State Government, and other prominent business entities. The delegation is led by Aboriginal Economic Development Group Director Sara Stewart. With avenues of exploration spanning Food, Textile, and IT, the delegates are poised to engage in transformative interactions that have the potential to reshape economic landscapes.
Commenting on the significance of this initiative, Sri Lanka and Australia Chamber of Commerce President Kalum De Silva said, “Our Chamber is committed to linking the business communities of the two countries to encourage economic development, further fortifying and diversifying the strong cultural and diplomatic relationships that already exist. Through this event, we envision not only economic growth but also the cultivation of stronger bonds of friendship and understanding between our nations. This is the union of Australia’s First Nations people with the indigenous community of Sri Lanka and is a powerful testament to the enduring significance of indigenous cultures worldwide. As these two distinct yet spiritually connected communities converge, they weave a tapestry of shared wisdom, resilience, and a deep reverence for the land. We look forward to hosting the Australian Trade Delegation 2023, and giving them unique insights into what Sri Lanka has to offer Australia and the World.”
The week-long event is to feature a series of exciting events. Exploring growth opportunities, the delegation will participate in discussions on mutual expansion prospects during sessions at the Export Development Board (EDB). A visit to Port City Colombo promises a glimpse into the burgeoning dynamism of Sri Lanka’s evolving infrastructure, as the Gateway to South Asia edges closer to completion. The immersive IT sector tour is set to unfold at Hatch Incubator and Orion City IT Park, giving Australians a first-hand look into the thriving tech landscape of Sri Lanka, and the expansive opportunities it presents.
Exploring collaborative opportunities, the delegation will partake in productive B2B meetings with key stakeholders across the food, textile, and IT sectors. A number of exciting cultural encounters have also been woven in, with highlights ranging from a sensory Kandy spice plantation visit to an exploration of a quaint handloom textile village. An indigenous village visit is also planned, forging a profound connection between the delegates and the local communities, underscoring the essence of unity.
OSL take:
Sri Lanka is currently engaged in reviewing and strengthening the country’s trade ties with all foreign countries. Local authorities are engaged in carrying out promotional campaigns in key foreign markets to promote trade and investment opportunities in Sri Lanka. The country’s economy is once again on a growth path after facing the challenges posed by the global pandemic and the economic crisis that followed it. It also shows the resilience shown by Sri Lanka’s economy to external and internal challenges. With Sri Lanka’s economic activities on an expansion path and the country working towards becoming an emerging business destination in the South Asian region, the growth and business potential of the country would undoubtedly be on a growth trajectory. Sri Lanka’s geographical positioning in the Indian Ocean and the many trade agreements as well as trade concessions enjoyed by the country also play a key role in the country’s overall economic expansion. Given the growth and business potential in Sri Lanka, Australian businesses/investors could confidently explore the expanding opportunities in Sri Lanka. They could also look at forming partnerships or joint ventures with local businesses with the aim of expansion.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/20230914/Z_1 |