The Qatar Sri Lanka Business Council was officially launched in Doha, marking a significant milestone in the strengthening of economic ties between Qatar and Sri Lanka. The event, held in the presence of Sri Lankan Ambassador to Qatar Mohamed Mafaz Mohideen, Qatar Sri Lanka Business Council President John Prasad, and other dignitaries, underscored the council’s mission to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities.
Diplomatic relations between Qatar and Sri Lanka began at the ambassadorial level on July 20, 1976. Sri Lanka established its mission in Doha in 1997, followed by Qatar’s mission in Colombo on September 28, 2004. The creation of the Qatar Sri Lanka Business Council aims to further deepen this partnership by fostering business interactions and promoting mutual investments.
Ambassador Mohideen highlighted the council’s role as a practical platform to strengthen economic ties and explore new growth opportunities. He stated, “The establishment of this Business Council is not merely symbolic but holds immense practical value. It will create a conducive environment for enhancing trade volumes, attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), and exploring emerging sectors of mutual interest by fostering direct engagement between businesses, promoting investments, and facilitating knowledge exchange.”
John Prasad, President of the Qatar Sri Lanka Business Council, outlined the council’s primary objectives, which include promoting bilateral trade, sharing investment opportunities, fostering business collaboration, enhancing networking, and supporting SMEs. He emphasized the importance of creating a balanced trade relationship and encouraging Qatari investments in key sectors such as tourism, real estate, and manufacturing in Sri Lanka. “The success of this business council depends on the active collaboration and participation of the business communities from both nations. By working together, we can create a dynamic and successful network that will mutually benefit our countries,” Prasad added.
The Qatar Sri Lanka Business Council, affiliated with the Sri Lankan Embassy in Doha, is comprised of Sri Lankan professionals working across various sectors in Qatar. The council has launched a website detailing its objectives and highlighting trade and investment opportunities in Sri Lanka. The inaugural office bearers include Vice-president A. Yoonus, Secretary Waruna Gunasekara, Treasurer Adil Nastar, and members Shreen Abeysekera, Intiqab Rawoof, Tara Dias, Neomal de Silva, Chanka Dissanayake, and Saad Imthiyaz.