The visit coincides with the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Sri Lanka (July 21, 1970 - 2025). This is Dissanayake’s first visit to Vietnam since assuming office in November 2024, and notably, it marks the first visit by a Sri Lankan head of state to Vietnam since 2009.

The trip comes at a time when both Vietnam and Sri Lanka are striving toward major national development goals, aiming to become developed nations by the centennials of their respective founding, 2045 for Vietnam and 2048 for Sri Lanka.

According to Vietnamese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Trinh Thi Tam, Dissanayake’s visit offers an opportunity for both countries to review the progress made over the past five decades and to outline strategies to further strengthen friendship and cooperation in light of new global and regional developments.

“The visit covers key pillars including politics, economy, and culture. Highlights include high-level talks and meetings, the signing of important cooperation agreements, and engagement with major Vietnamese businesses,” said the diplomat.

Vietnam and Sri Lanka share strengths and potential for expanding cooperation in various fields such as trade, investment, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, education, culture, Buddhism, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and people-to-people exchanges. The two countries are also looking to foster cooperation in emerging fields like digital transformation, digital economy, energy transition, and artificial intelligence.

Currently, both countries maintain three key cooperation mechanisms, namely the Joint Commission on Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation; Political Consultations; and the Joint Subcommittee on Trade.. Over 30 cooperation agreements have been signed covering crucial areas such as trade, investment, defence, agriculture, culture, and education.

However, bilateral trade volume remains modest. In 2024, two-way trade stood at approximately US$215.5 million. As for investment, Sri Lanka currently has around 30 projects in Vietnam, with total registered capital exceeding US$40 million.

The Ambassador expressed confidence that Dissanayake’s visit will provide momentum to deepen Vietnam–Sri Lanka cooperation in key sectors including trade, investment, defence, security, people-to-people exchange, machinery manufacturing, heritage preservation, and information technology. In addition, the two sides will work to expand cooperation in new areas and enhance collaboration at multilateral forums.

Vietnam, Sri Lanka deepen traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation

The upcoming state visit of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka to Vietnam is expected to strengthen political trust and foster deeper, more effective cooperation across a wide range of sectors.