The Third Round of Political Consultations between Sri Lanka and the Philippines was successfully concluded in Colombo on 12 September 2025, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
Delivering the opening remarks, Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Aruni Ranaraja, emphasised the importance of expanding the warm and friendly ties between the two nations. She expressed hope that the Philippines would consider reopening its resident Mission in Colombo, particularly in view of the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations to be marked in 2026. Ranaraja also noted Sri Lanka’s readiness to work closely with the Philippines as it assumes the upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN.
During the consultations, both countries held constructive discussions on a wide range of issues, including trade, investment, labour, defence, security, agriculture, fisheries, education, and cultural exchanges. Priority was given to agriculture, fishing, and aquaculture, with Sri Lanka welcoming opportunities to benefit from the Philippines’ advanced expertise, especially in milkfish breeding technology.
On labour cooperation, the two sides underscored the need for the early conclusion of the draft MoU and explored ways to enhance knowledge sharing in migration governance, regulated recruitment, pre-departure training, and migrant worker welfare. Opportunities for collaboration in education and technical training were also highlighted through partnerships with the Philippines’ Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
The discussions further explored boosting trade and investment cooperation through closer ties between Sri Lanka’s Export Development Board and the Philippines’ Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM).
As part of the 65th anniversary celebrations in 2026, both sides agreed on several initiatives, including the issuance of commemorative stamps, a concert by renowned Filipino artists, a film festival, and a Filipino Culinary Night in Colombo.
The consultations were co-chaired by Additional Secretary for Bilateral Political Affairs (East) of Sri Lanka, Sashikala Premawardhane, and the Philippines’ Undersecretary for Policy, Ma Hellen B. De La Vega, with senior officials and ambassadors from both countries in attendance.
The next round of Political Consultations will take place in Manila in 2026.
