President Anura Kumara returns from UAE

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has returned to the island this morning after concluding his three-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and attending the World Government Summit 2025.

He arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake onboard Emirates flight EK-650 from Dubai at 08:25 a.m. today (13).

President Dissanayake left for the UAE on February 10 to attend the World Government Summit 2025 on the invitation of UAE President Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

During the visit, President Dissanayake addressed the World Government Summit 2025 in Dubai, outlining Sri Lanka’s vision for economic growth, innovation, and governance reforms. He reiterated the country’s commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation.

Following his address at the summit, he held bilateral discussions with UAE President Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, which facilitated the enhancement of cooperation in several fields between the two countries, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).

He also met Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

In addition, President Dissanayake met with the Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, on February 11.

Beyond these key meetings, President Dissanayake also held bilateral discussions with Heads of State and Governments from several countries who attended the summit, the statement said. 

Additionally, to attract investment to Sri Lanka, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held discussions with several executives from leading global companies in sectors such as information technology (IT), artificial intelligence (AI), energy, tourism, finance, and media.

During the three-day visit, an agreement was also signed between the Ministry of Finance of the UAE and Sri Lanka regarding investment protection and promotion.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, also accompanied the President during this visit, the PMD added.

Overall, the visit is expected to further strengthen the bilateral ties between Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates while fostering economic and diplomatic cooperation with other nations.