The Sri Lanka–Thailand Business Council (SLTBC) marked a significant milestone in its distinguished history with the celebration of its 25th Anniversary, commemorating a quarter century of fostering trade, investment, economic cooperation and enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Held at the Kingsbury Hotel in Colombo, the prestigious Silver Jubilee celebration brought together government leaders, diplomats, business executives, investors, and members of the Sri Lanka–Thailand business community to reflect on the Council’s achievements and explore new opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.
Welcoming the distinguished guests, Mr. Rizan Nazeer, President of the Sri Lanka–Thailand Business Council, reflected on the Council’s remarkable 25-year journey in strengthening bilateral trade and business relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand. He noted that over the years, the Council has played a consistent and meaningful role in bringing together business leaders, investors, and institutions from both countries, helping to build trust and deepen economic engagement.
Reaffirming the Council’s forward-looking vision, he underscored its continued commitment to strengthening economic ties between Sri Lanka and Thailand. He added that the Council remains dedicated to advancing trade, encouraging innovation, and promoting mutually beneficial partnerships that will support sustainable growth and open new avenues of cooperation in the years ahead.
Adding further significance to the evening were addresses delivered by H.E. Paitoon Mahapannaporn, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Royal Thai Embassy in Colombo, who noted that trade between the two countries has increased by nearly 48 percent in recent years while investment ties continue to strengthen. Marking the Council’s 25th anniversary, he noted that the Royal Thai Embassy had brought a delegation of 27 Thai business representatives to Sri Lanka to participate in business forums, networking sessions and site visits aimed at fostering stronger partnerships. Looking ahead, he identified the implementation of the Sri Lanka–Thailand Free Trade Agreement as a key driver for expanding trade, investment and regional supply chain integration between the two nations.
Ms. Prim Jitcharoongphorn, Deputy Secretary General of the Board of Trade of Thailand and Chief of the Working Committee on South Asia of the Board of Trade of Thailand, reaffirmed the importance of continued collaboration and people-to-people connections in driving future growth.
A special video presentation highlighted the contributions and future aspirations of the Thailand Board of Investment, the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, and the Sri Lanka–Thailand Business Council, illustrating the dynamic opportunities available for businesses operating across both markets.
Speaking on behalf of the Principal Sponsor, Mr. Thusith Gunawarnasuriya, Chief Executive Officer of INSEE Cement, underscored the importance of strong regional partnerships in driving sustainable economic development and creating long-term value for businesses and communities alike.
The highlight of the evening was the address by Chief Guest Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka, who commended the Sri Lanka–Thailand Business Council for serving as a vital bridge between the two nations, bringing business communities closer and creating new opportunities for trade and investment. Highlighting the steady growth in bilateral trade, he noted that even greater potential exists in sectors such as tourism, logistics, technology and sustainable development. The Minister emphasized that continued partnership and dialogue would be key to unlocking these opportunities and reaffirmed the Council’s important role in fostering collaboration and strengthening economic ties between Sri Lanka and Thailand.
The celebration also included the presentation of tokens of appreciation to individuals and organizations that have contributed significantly to strengthening Sri Lanka–Thailand relations over the years.
As the Council celebrates its Silver Jubilee, it reaffirms its commitment to serving as a trusted bridge between the business communities of Sri Lanka and Thailand, fostering meaningful partnerships, facilitating investment opportunities, and contributing to the economic prosperity of both nations. The 25th Anniversary celebration not only honoured the Council’s remarkable achievements but also marked the beginning of a new chapter dedicated to advancing trade, innovation, and collaboration for generations to come.
