According to Abeysena, To Lam’s visit marked an important milestone in bilateral relations and served as “a strong catalyst” for expanding cooperation in science, technology and digital transformation between the two countries.

The Minister said the signing of a memorandum of understanding on science and technology cooperation during the visit demonstrated the shared vision and political commitment of both governments to building a future based on knowledge, innovation and shared prosperity.

The agreement establishes an official framework for joint research, expert exchanges and the joint development of technological solutions suited to each country’s development needs.

Abeysena described the visit as elevating bilateral ties to “a new level,” creating opportunities for cooperation in key sectors including biotechnology, agriculture and food technology, climate adaptation, electronics, automation and information technology, which he said are central to the sustainable development strategies of both Sri Lanka and Vietnam.

Speaking about follow-up steps after the signing of the memorandum, the Minister said Sri Lanka pledges to ensure the rapid and effective implementation of agreed areas of cooperation. He stressed that Sri Lanka viewed the agreement not as a symbolic document, but as a framework intended to deliver practical benefits for the people and economies of both countries.

During bilateral talks between the two science and technology ministers, both sides identified several immediate priorities, including appointing focal agencies for implementation.

Vietnam designated its Department of International Cooperation, while Sri Lanka assigned the task to its Department of International Relations. The two sides will next coordinate on a roadmap and timetable for implementing the memorandum.

Sri Lanka has also proposed cooperation with Vietnam in freeze-drying technology for fruit and vegetables and matcha beverage-processing technology, which the minister said offer strong potential for Sri Lanka’s agricultural processing and export sectors.

The country also expressed interest in working with Vietnam in satellite technology, electronics and electrical engineering through the Arthur C Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies (ACCIMT), as well as lightning protection systems and climate resilience planning.

The two sides also agreed to organize joint workshops in technical fields of shared interest, promote joint research projects and develop long-term cooperation programs through links between universities and research institutes in both countries. They are also expected to promote co-funding mechanisms between research agencies to support joint research and development initiatives.

Abeysena added that science, technology and digital transformation could help transform bilateral ties from a traditional friendship into a partnership driven by innovation and inclusive growth.

On digital transformation, the Minister  said both Sri Lanka and Vietnam were at important stages of national development, adding that exchanges of expertise and experience could help accelerate digitalization in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education and public services. He highlighted Vietnam’s advances in digital infrastructure as valuable lessons for Sri Lanka, while saying Sri Lanka’s experience in information technology services and the knowledge economy could also offer useful lessons for Vietnam.

Regarding research cooperation, Abeysena said the memorandum created an official foundation for scientists and research institutions from both countries to jointly design and implement projects addressing shared challenges, particularly in biotechnology, climate adaptation and food technology. He went on to say that such cooperation would strengthen research capacity and build lasting links between the scientific communities of the two countries.

Exchanges of scientists, engineers and technical experts under the memorandum will give workforces in both countries greater exposure to advanced ideas, methods and practical models, he continued.

Abeysena affirmed that innovation-driven economic growth remained a shared objective for both Sri Lanka and Vietnam. He expressed confidence that stronger science and technology partnerships linked to national economic priorities will help create new industries, generate high-quality jobs and improve living standards in both countries.

FM Le Hoai Trung highlights broader cooperation with India and Sri Lanka ahead

VOV.VN - Party General Secretary and President To Lam concluded successful state visits to India from May 5-7 and Sri Lanka from May 7-8, 2026, achieving important and comprehensive outcomes.