Vietnam diplomats boosted economic links during a recent visit to Sri Lanka’s Jaffna, aiming to deepen cooperation across trade, investment, and tourism. Their engagements highlighted both nations’ shared interest in strengthening long-term regional development.
Vietnam diplomats strengthen regional economic links through renewed cooperation
The visit by Vietnam diplomats to Sri Lanka’s Jaffna marked a significant diplomatic effort to expand bilateral economic links and understand the evolving development needs of the Northern Province. Led by Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam, the delegation sought to build a stronger foundation for cooperation by engaging with key government officials, business leaders, and regional stakeholders who play an essential role in shaping the province’s economic future.
During the visit, Ambassador Tam paid a courtesy call on Northern Province Governor Nagalingam Vethanayahan, who outlined the region’s potential for growth in agribusiness, aquaculture, livestock development, tourism, logistics, and renewable energy. He emphasized that the province is well positioned for sustainable expansion due to its fertile land, extensive coastline, and abundant natural resources. These attributes, he noted, present substantial opportunities for international partners interested in long-term investment and strategic collaboration.
The Ambassador also held discussions with Chief Secretary Thanuja Murugeson and senior representatives from the Agriculture, Education, Health, and Tourism sectors. These meetings provided the Vietnamese delegation an opportunity to gather detailed insights into the region’s socioeconomic landscape and its priorities for development. According to the Embassy, the goal was to identify practical avenues for cooperation that align with both Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts and Vietnam’s growing international engagement in South Asia.
Ambassador Tam commended the Northern Province for its steady progress in economic recovery and social development despite enduring long-standing challenges. She highlighted the resilience of the local community and applauded ongoing initiatives aimed at improving living standards, strengthening public services, and building a more inclusive economy. Her message underscored Vietnam’s appreciation for the province’s determination to grow even amid adversity.
Governor Vethanayahan emphasised that the Northern Province is prioritising the establishment of industrial zones, special economic zones, and modern logistics infrastructure. These initiatives, he said, are critical to transforming the region into a competitive hub for trade and manufacturing. He encouraged Vietnam to explore opportunities in export-oriented agro-processing, renewable energy solutions, infrastructure development, and skill-building in essential sectors such as education and healthcare.
A key highlight of the visit was the Embassy’s roundtable discussion with the Jaffna Chamber of Commerce. This meeting brought together senior members of the local business community, who expressed enthusiasm about deepening ties with Vietnamese companies. Many business leaders shared their optimism that stronger bilateral cooperation could create new avenues for investment, spur job creation, and support the province’s long-term economic stability.
Ambassador Tam used the occasion to present Vietnam as an attractive investment destination with a stable economic environment, skilled labor force, modern infrastructure, and an extensive network of free trade agreements. These advantages, she said, offer Sri Lankan investors considerable potential for profitable and mutually beneficial partnerships. Her remarks highlighted Vietnam’s readiness to welcome Sri Lankan enterprises into key sectors such as manufacturing, technology, fisheries, and agri-based industries.
She reaffirmed that the Embassy is committed to supporting businesses in both countries by facilitating connections, encouraging collaborative ventures, and promoting practical cooperation. This includes assistance in navigating regulatory processes, identifying investment opportunities, and enabling knowledge exchange between the two business communities.
Local business representatives responded by outlining priority areas where collaboration with Vietnam could deliver immediate benefits. These included high-tech agriculture, aquaculture, agro-aquatic processing, and advanced post-harvest technologies. They also requested assistance in capacity-building initiatives, technology transfer, and workforce training — areas where Vietnam has strong expertise and proven track records.
As Sri Lanka continues its economic recovery, the Northern Province sees international partnerships as vital to unlocking its full development potential. For Vietnam, the visit reinforces its growing interest in strengthening its footprint in South Asia through cooperation built on shared interests, cultural links, and economic opportunities.
The series of discussions in Jaffna underscored a mutual recognition that deeper economic links can drive regional stability, improve living standards, and create new opportunities for innovation and sustainable development. With both countries expressing a strong commitment to expanding cooperation, the visit sets the stage for a more dynamic and productive partnership in the months ahead.