Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan sign pact to boost trade and tourism ties

ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan have signed an agreement establishing a formal framework for regular bilateral dialogue and enhanced cooperation between the two countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. “The MoU reflects the shared commitment of both countries to further deepen engagement and strengthen institutional linkages across areas of mutual interest.” The two foreign ministries held political consultations in Tashkent, Uzbekistan last week. The Sri Lankan delegation was led by ministry secretary Aruni Ranaraja, while the Uzbek delegation was headed by First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan Aloyev Bakhrom. Sri Lanka is interested in expanding its engagement with the Central Asian region, Ranaraja was quoted as saying, particularly with Uzbekistan, recognizing the country’s location as a vital link between Asia and Europe, its ongoing economic transformation, and its growing contribution to regional connectivity and integration. The consultations reviewed the status of bilateral relations, helped exchange views on matters of mutual interest, and identify new avenues for cooperation and partnership. Both sides highlighted trade, tourism, logistics, and education as key sectors with significant potential for cooperation. The two sides emphasized the need to diversify bilateral trade, increase trade volumes, and promote mutually beneficial investment opportunities. The two sides have commenced seasonal charter flights from Uzbekistan to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Tourism was invited to participate in the Tashkent International Tourism Fair, scheduled to be held in September 2026. Ranaraja also met Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan, Shokhrukh K Gulamov where both sides agreed to formulate measures to expand and diversify bilateral trade, particularly cooperation in apparel manufacturing, tea packaging, seafood exports, and the gem and jewellery industry. Ranaraja met Deputy Minister of Sports Avaz Karimov, Chairman and Adviser of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan Alisher Shaykhov, and Deputy Chairman of the Tourism Committee Sandjar Tadjiev, to discuss opportunities for further collaboration in sports, trade and investment, and tourism. The Second Round of Political Consultations is due to be held in Colombo in 2027. (Colombo/Jul13/2026)