The 3rd Japan–Sri Lanka Policy Dialogue was held on 30 July 2025 in Colombo at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism. The dialogue served as a constructive platform for both countries to exchange views on foreign policy matters and a wide range of bilateral issues, paving the way for enhanced cooperation.
Discussions focused on strengthening economic ties, with particular emphasis on shared interests in trade and investment. The Sri Lankan side briefed the Japanese delegation on the country’s current economic situation and its ongoing efforts toward debt sustainability, while expressing deep appreciation for Japan’s significant role as Co-Chair of the Official Creditor Committee (OCC).
The dialogue also highlighted the value of Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) and its substantial contribution to Sri Lanka’s socio-economic development. Noting that over 63,000 Sri Lankans currently reside in Japan, both sides addressed key issues related to labour migration and explored pathways for a sustainable and mutually beneficial migration framework.
Emphasis was also placed on deepening defence and security cooperation between the two countries.
The dialogue was co-chaired by Ms. Sashikala Premawardhane, Additional Secretary for Bilateral Political Affairs (East) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka, and Mr. Miyamoto Shingo, Director General of the Southeast and Southwest Asian Affairs Department and Assistant Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
