Uzbekistan and Sri Lanka Agree on Regular Political Consultations

Uzbekistan and Sri Lanka Establish Regular Political Consultation Framework

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Sri Lanka have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding that creates an official framework for ongoing bilateral political consultations, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka.

This agreement is designed to enhance political dialogue and broaden cooperation between the two nations.

The memorandum was finalized after the inaugural round of political consultations that took place in Tashkent. The Uzbek delegation was led by First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakhrom Aloyev, while the Sri Lankan delegation was headed by Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Aruni Ranaraja.

The Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the agreement signifies both parties' commitment to fortifying institutional connections and fostering collaboration on shared interests.

During the discussions, the two sides assessed the progress of their bilateral relations, exchanged perspectives on the current international and regional landscape, and pinpointed new avenues for cooperation. Special emphasis was placed on enhancing trade, tourism, logistics, and educational partnerships.

The participants highlighted the necessity of diversifying mutual trade, boosting trade volume, and executing joint investment initiatives.

The Sri Lankan delegation expressed a keen interest in strengthening ties with Central Asian nations, acknowledging Uzbekistan's strategic position, the economic reforms underway in the country, and its increasing influence in enhancing regional connectivity.

Additionally, the parties noted the initiation of seasonal charter flights between Uzbekistan and Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan tourism authority has also been invited to take part in the Tashkent International Tourism Fair scheduled for September 2026.

During her visit to Uzbekistan, Aruni Ranaraja conducted separate meetings with officials from the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Sports, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Tourism Committee. The discussions focused on potential collaboration in trade and investment, tourism, sports, the textile sector, tea packaging, seafood exports, and jewelry development.

At the conclusion of the talks, the parties agreed to convene the second round of political consultations in Colombo in 2027.