A high-level discussion was held yesterday (21) to address the challenges Sri Lankan citizens face when using their local driving licenses abroad, particularly in Italy and other European nations under the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.

Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Arun Hemachandra chaired the meeting, which included Deputy Transport Minister Prasanna Gunasena and senior officials from the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) and Foreign Ministry.

The officials discussed incompatibility in license formats and inconsistent recognition by foreign authorities, stressing the urgent need to digitize and modernize the licensing system.

Minister Hemachandra said efforts are underway to align Sri Lanka’s licensing with international standards, aiming to reduce barriers for migrant workers and promote digital governance.