The Second Round of Political Consultations between the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Republic of Türkiye was held successfully at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye in Ankara on May 5, 2026.
In which, The consultations were co-chaired by Director General of the Europe and North America Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka, Sugeeshwara Gunaratna, and Director General for South Asia of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, Ambassador Cihad Erginay, according to a statement issued by Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism.
The discussions marked an important step in the longstanding bilateral relationship between Sri Lanka and Türkiye, highlighting the commitment of both countries to strengthening cooperation based on mutual respect, shared interests, and common values. Both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining regular political dialogue to assess progress and identify additional areas for collaboration.
The consultations covered a broad range of subjects, including bilateral political relations, trade and economic cooperation, defence collaboration, connectivity and maritime affairs, education, science and technology, as well as regional and multilateral matters. Similarly, The two delegations also explored opportunities to expand investments and joint ventures, particularly in the sectors of pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, tourism, logistics, and technology. In addition, both sides underscored the importance of advancing cooperation in higher education, vocational training, and scientific research, including the early finalization of pending bilateral agreements.
Sri Lanka expressed appreciation for the humanitarian assistance provided by the Government of Türkiye following Cyclone Ditwah, while both parties discussed further cooperation in reconstruction and development initiatives.
The consultations noted continued progress in defence and security cooperation, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to enhancing institutional partnerships and capacity-building initiatives. Discussions also focused on improving connectivity and maritime cooperation, including the use of existing direct air links between Istanbul and Colombo and potential collaboration in maritime services and the blue economy.
The delegations exchanged views on regional and international developments, including issues concerning West Asia, South Asia, and the Indian Ocean region. They also reaffirmed their commitment to close cooperation within the United Nations and other multilateral forums on matters of shared interest. Both countries reiterated their adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, international law, and multilateral cooperation.
The successful convening of the Second Round of Political Consultations reflected the shared intention of both countries to further strengthen bilateral relations in support of sustainable development, regional stability, and mutual prosperity.
The Sri Lankan delegation included Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Republic of Türkiye Niluka Kadurugamuwa, Minister Nilusha Dilmini, and First Secretary (Commercial) Dilanga Hettiarachchi.
During the visit, Director General Sugeeshwara Gunaratna also met with Director General for Humanitarian and Technical Assistance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye Korhan Karakoç and Vice President of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) Dr. Ali Ercan to discuss post-Ditwah assistance to Sri Lanka.
