Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today called for stronger cooperation between India and Sri Lanka to drive economic transformation, regional stability, and future growth.
Addressing the ZEE Media WION Global Innovation and Leadership Summit in Colombo, Premadasa said Sri Lanka has moved beyond recovery and is now entering a phase of accelerated, inclusive, and sustainable growth on a stabilised macroeconomic foundation.
He stressed that India should be seen as a key partner rather than a competitor, highlighting India’s growth in manufacturing and digital technology as an opportunity for collaboration.
Premadasa also reaffirmed his support for India’s bid for permanent membership at the United Nations Security Council and underscored the importance of joint efforts to ensure regional security and maritime stability.
Outlining his vision for the future, he proposed building a US$30 billion digital economy between 2030 and 2035 through legal reforms, stronger data protection measures, cybersecurity frameworks, and nationwide digital inclusion initiatives.
He also proposed establishing an India–Sri Lanka Industrial and Technological Trade Zone, focusing on sectors such as renewable energy, logistics, tourism, and semiconductors, positioning Sri Lanka as a complementary hub to India’s manufacturing strength.
Highlighting recent progress, Premadasa noted the integration of India’s UPI system with Lanka QR, which facilitates seamless cross-border transactions. He also emphasized plans to develop Trincomalee as a regional energy hub.
Speaking on tourism, he said Sri Lanka must move beyond volume-based growth and focus on high-value, sustainable experiences while promoting the “Made in Sri Lanka” brand globally.
Reaffirming his commitment to meritocracy and inclusive development, Premadasa said economic progress must benefit all citizens.
“As a constructive opposition, we support policies that add value and oppose those that diminish it,” he said, inviting global investors to partner in Sri Lanka’s next phase of growth.
