The second round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Sri Lanka and Finland took place in Helsinki yesterday (26), marking a significant step in strengthening their longstanding relationship. 

The discussions resulted in the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on establishing a formal Political Consultation Mechanism, ensuring regular dialogue and cooperation.  

The talks reviewed progress since the first round in 2018 and explored new areas for collaboration, including trade, investment, tourism, maritime sector cooperation, vocational training, and meteorological data sharing. 

Both sides emphasised boosting trade, encouraging business partnerships, and enhancing people-to-people contacts, especially for Sri Lankan students and expatriates in Finland.  

They also discussed Sri Lanka’s engagement with the EU, including GSP Plus benefits, and expressed gratitude for Finland’s support during Cyclone DITWAH. 

The delegations reaffirmed commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation, with Finland’s delegation led by Jari Sinkari and Sri Lanka’s by Sugeeshwara Gunaratna.