In a recent engagement between the Sri Lankan and Brazilian governments, both parties agreed to increase bilateral trade between the nations to $ 1 billion by 2030, acknowledging the steady growth in economic cooperation in the two nation’s past. Both countries also emphasised the importance of broadening engagement in response to evolving global economic dynamics.

The discussion took place during the Second Round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Sri Lanka and Brazil, held last week on Friday (20), at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism in Colombo. The meeting was co-chaired by Secretary to the Ministry,

Aruni Ranaraja and Secretary for Asia and the Pacific at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil Ambassador Susan Kleebank.

Recognising the value of expediting the conclusion of pending MoUs and agreements in key

areas to further strengthen ties, the parties committed to finalising outstanding legal

instruments on defence, law enforcement, countering human smuggling and transnational

organised crime, traditional and Ayurvedic medicine, and diplomatic training. 

The consultations also provided an opportunity to review the progress achieved since the First

Round of Bilateral Political Consultations held in 2022 and identify further areas for possible

collaborations.

The two sides expressed satisfaction that the Dairy Livestock Project and the Sugarcane Project under the framework of technical cooperation have been finalised and are expected to be signed in the near future, with the support of the Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC).

Preparations for President Anura Kumara Disanayaka’s forthcoming state visit to Brazil were also discussed at the meeting. Noting the importance of enhancing parliamentary diplomacy and fostering closer ties between the legislatures, the two sides agreed to revive the Parliamentary Friendship Groups and exchange delegations. In this regard, a women A Parliamentary group from the Brazilian legislature is expected to visit Sri Lanka.

The discussions also identified new avenues for cooperation in priority sectors, including agriculture, animal husbandry, agricultural research, ports and shipping, and sports. Both sides also agreed to continue the close collaboration in bilateral and multilateral forums.

Ambassador Susan Kleebank also called on Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment

and Tourism Vijitha Herath, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further

strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

The delegations to the political consultations also included Sri Lanka to Brazil Ambassador

Chaminda I. Colonne, Chargé d’ Affaires Embassy of Brazil Monica Maria Meirelles

Nasser senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism

and the relevant line agencies.