Sri Lanka – France Business Council holds Members’ Day for the second consecutive year, bringing together business leaders, diplomats, and stakeholders to reinforce bilateral engagement and support Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery efforts.
Sri Lanka – France Business Council holds Members’ Day with French support
The Sri Lanka – France Business Council (SLFBC) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its Members’ Day Evening at the residence of French Ambassador Rémi Lambert, who graciously hosted the event. The gathering provided a platform for members, embassy officials, and distinguished invitees to connect, exchange perspectives, and strengthen economic and commercial ties between the two countries.
Addressing attendees, Ambassador Lambert reaffirmed France’s commitment as a reliable partner in Sri Lanka’s recovery journey. He emphasised that France intends to expand its engagement across multiple sectors, with particular focus on the maritime industry. This aligns with France’s broader strategic interests in global trade routes and maritime cooperation, positioning Sri Lanka as a key partner in the Indian Ocean region. Such initiatives are expected to further strengthen Sri Lanka France business relations, especially in areas linked to trade, logistics, and investment.
The Sri Lanka – France Business Council holds Members’ Day at a time when Sri Lanka is actively seeking to deepen international partnerships to support economic stability and growth. The Ambassador’s remarks highlighted France’s willingness to collaborate in sectors that can drive long-term development, including infrastructure, tourism, and maritime services. These engagements are increasingly important as Sri Lanka works to attract foreign investment and expand its global economic footprint.
SLFBC President Andre Fernando expressed appreciation to Ambassador Lambert for hosting the event and acknowledged France’s continued support during a challenging economic period. Reflecting on the Council’s activities over the past year, he noted a strong emphasis on promoting tourism and enhancing visibility in the French market. One notable initiative was the visit of French rugby legend Serge Betsen, which helped position Sri Lanka as an attractive destination for French travellers.
The visit, supported by French media coverage, contributed to raising awareness of Sri Lanka’s tourism offerings and highlighted the potential for increased visitor arrivals from Europe. These efforts are part of broader Sri Lanka tourism promotion strategies aimed at diversifying source markets and rebuilding momentum in the sector following recent global disruptions.
The event also served as a networking platform, enabling members of the business community to engage directly with diplomatic representatives and explore new opportunities for collaboration. Participants highlighted the importance of such forums in fostering dialogue, building partnerships, and facilitating trade and investment flows.
The Sri Lanka – France Business Council holds Members’ Day as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral economic ties and create avenues for business growth. By bringing together key stakeholders from both countries, the Council continues to play a vital role in supporting private sector engagement and promoting mutually beneficial partnerships.
In the context of a rapidly evolving global economic environment, such engagements are increasingly valuable. Business councils serve as important connectors, linking local enterprises with international markets and providing insights into emerging opportunities. For Sri Lanka, strengthening ties with countries like France can contribute to greater economic diversification and resilience.
The strong turnout at the event, which included members, distinguished guests, and embassy officials, underscored the continued interest in deepening Sri Lanka-France relations. It also reflected confidence in the role of bilateral partnerships in supporting economic recovery and long-term development.
As Sri Lanka continues to navigate its recovery path, initiatives that promote international collaboration and sectoral growth will remain critical. Events such as Members’ Day not only facilitate immediate networking opportunities but also contribute to building a foundation for sustained economic cooperation.