Sri Lanka is looking to revive its vocational training project in Ramallah while expanding trade, tourism and business links with Palestine, as the two sides seek to deepen cooperation beyond their longstanding diplomatic relationship.
The country’s Representative to Palestine, Farook Mohamed Fawzer, raised the proposed reinitiation of the Sri Lanka Vocational Training Institute Project in Ramallah during a meeting with Ramallah and Al-Bireh Governor Dr. Laila Ghannam on Monday (07).
Fawzer highlighted the project’s potential to support youth empowerment and development, while reaffirming continued humanitarian assistance to Palestine, including support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and assistance focused on the Gaza Strip.
The discussions also emphasized expanding commercial ties.
Fawzer briefed Governor Ghannam on Sri Lanka Expo 2027 and highlighted the need for closer engagement with PalTrade and Palestinian Chambers of Commerce. The proposed cooperation aims to create business-to-business connections, support tourism, and improve market access for businesses in both countries.
Governor Ghannam welcomed greater cooperation in trade and development and expressed appreciation for Colombo’s longstanding political and humanitarian support for Palestine.
Fawzer also reaffirmed the country’s five-decade commitment to the Palestinian cause and its support for multilateral efforts to uphold international law and pursue a peaceful resolution.
The two sides agreed to advance cooperation in trade, vocational training, cultural exchanges and people-to-people links.
The proposed revival of the Ramallah vocational training project and increased engagement between business organisations could give bilateral relations a stronger economic dimension, while Sri Lanka Expo 2027 could provide a platform for developing further commercial connections.
Last modified: September 11, 2026
