Sri Lanka can navigate the challenges posed by global geopolitical rivalries by ensuring maximum transparency when signing agreements with other nations, said Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, Arun Hemachandra. “The main reason some countries view us with suspicion is our history of opacity in foreign dealings. My ministry is a prime example — there are no records of certain discussions we have had with other nations,” Hemachandra said.
He said that the National People’s Power (NPP) Government is working to change these practices. In recent weeks, the Government has engaged in discussions with Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, to attract investments in the energy sector, particularly in the development of the Trincomalee oil tank farm. “Senior Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) officials and representatives from my Ministry’s Economic Affairs Department were included in these discussions. We have a clear plan to develop the Trincomalee oil tank farm,” he said. Addressing India’s strong interest in Trincomalee and the involvement of Lanka IOC in the facility, Hemachandra said that discussions with India would be held regarding its future development. “We will employ diplomacy to prevent miscommunication or hostility with other nations while advancing Sri Lanka’s strategic assets,” he added.
