Courtesy Call by the Ambassador of Norway to Sri Lanka
In a visit that underscores the expanding cooperation between Norway and Sri Lanka, the Ambassador of Norway to Sri Lanka, H.E. May-Elin Stener, was warmly received at the Prime Minister’s Office. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya led the discussions that highlighted several areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration.
The dialogue between the two nations focused on broadening avenues for cooperation, with particular emphasis on key areas such as poverty reduction, enhancing social protection frameworks, tax reform strategies, advancements in renewable energy, and creating job opportunities. Dr. Amarasuriya pointed out the critical need for reforming the educational landscape in Sri Lanka, with an emphasis on incorporating technological solutions to enhance the efficiency of public service delivery.
Reflecting the high level of engagement and commitment on both sides, the meeting was attended by a number of senior officials. The delegation included Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister, Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister, as well as Ms. Shobini Gunasekera, Director General of the Europe and North America Division at the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The discussions with Ambassador Stener represent a continued effort to forge a robust partnership between Norway and Sri Lanka, leveraging each nation’s strengths to address pressing challenges and explore new opportunities for growth and development.
The initiative to integrate digital governance within the realm of public services was one of the highlights of the discussions. Dr. Amarasuriya elucidated on the ongoing projects aimed at digital transformation, a key driver for streamlining services and ensuring efficient allocation and use of resources. The move towards digital governance is seen as a pivotal step in elevating the quality of public service delivery in Sri Lanka, making it more transparent, efficient, and accessible to the general populace.
The focus on renewable energy aligns with global efforts to tackle climate change, a subject of common interest between the two nations. Such collaborations are vital in supporting Sri Lanka’s transition to sustainable energy while also opening paths for technological exchange and capacity building.
Economic and fiscal policies, including tax reforms and poverty alleviation initiatives, were also central to the discussions. These areas are critical for sustainable development and improving the socioeconomic standing of Sri Lanka’s population. The cooperation aims to enhance these frameworks by sharing insights and best practices from Norway’s own experiences and systems.
Employment generation was another significant aspect of the talks, recognizing the need to create meaningful work opportunities that can cater to a diverse and evolving workforce. The meeting underscored the importance of initiatives that foster skills development, encourage innovation, and infuse life into various sectors of the economy.
Both Norway and Sri Lanka look forward to nurturing and expanding this collaborative spirit through tangible projects and sustained dialogue, setting a precedent of effective partnership and mutual progress.
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