The first annual general meeting of the Sri Lanka-Indonesia Business Council (SLIBC) was held recently at Jetwing Colombo Seven.

Indonesian Ambassador Dewi Gustina Tobing graced the occasion as the chief guest.

In her remarks, Tobing commended the SLIBC for its successful first year, highlighting a 12.76% increase in trade value between Indonesia and Sri Lanka from January to September, compared to the same period the previous year.

She expressed confidence in the future potential of trade relations between the two countries and emphasised the SLIBC’s role as a strategic partner for the Indonesian Embassy.

Economist Anushka Wijesinha, who was the keynote speaker, discussed Sri Lanka’s international trade in a shifting global context.

He focused on Sri Lanka’s trade performance and his role in the economic crisis, new dynamics and shifts in international trade and concluded with his personal reflections on the Sri Lanka-Indonesia PTA and way forward.

Vish Govindasamy, who will remain as President of the council for 2024-25, touched on activities the council has engaged in to strengthen the bonds of trade and cooperation between the two nations.

Govindasamy highlighted the 14-member delegation from Sri Lanka that participated in the INASCA Forum amongst others. His remarks aligned with the Ambassador’s sentiments, celebrating a successful first year that has paved the way for deeper ties in the future.

Shea Wickremasinghe and Gerard Victoria were elected as Vice Presidents of the council for 2024/25 and the newly elected committee includes representatives from Aitken Spence Cargo (Pvt) Ltd., Amana Bank PLC, hSenid Business Solutions PLC, Jetwing Travels (Pvt) Ltd., MAS Capital (Pvt) Ltd.