Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka Khaled Nasser Sulaiman AlAmeri have discussed the economic effects of the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The talks included the impact of the conflict on global oil supplies and energy prices. They also looked at possible effects on the economy and consumers.
The meeting took place as regional security concerns continue to affect energy markets and countries that depend on imported fuel.
Focus on Sri Lankan Workers in UAE
The safety of Sri Lankan nationals working in the UAE was another key topic.
The two sides discussed the need to protect migrant workers amid wider security concerns in the region.
The UAE is an important destination for Sri Lankan workers. The UAE Embassy says hundreds of thousands of Sri Lankan workers and domestic workers contribute to the country’s economy.
The issue is also important for Sri Lanka because overseas workers contribute foreign exchange to the local economy.
Trade and Investment Opportunities
Beyond the regional security situation, Premadasa and AlAmeri discussed ways to expand economic ties.
The talks covered trade and investment cooperation. Tourism, development and emerging sectors were also identified as areas for further cooperation, according to the report.
The UAE and Sri Lanka already have long-standing economic and people-to-people links.
For businesses, stronger cooperation could open opportunities in areas beyond traditional trade. The discussions also point to tourism and new sectors as possible areas for future engagement.
The meeting comes as both countries continue to explore ways to deepen their economic relationship while managing the wider effects of regional instability.
Last modified: September 21, 2026
