Sri Lanka is exploring new trade, investment and technology links with African countries.
The discussions followed a meeting between Ambassador Nirmala Paranavitana and UNECA Executive Secretary Claver Gatete.
Paranavitana, the country’s first female Permanent Representative to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), presented her credentials to Gatete on September 9.
The two sides discussed South-South cooperation, investment, technology transfer, knowledge sharing and private-sector partnerships.
Gatete highlighted several areas for possible cooperation. These include rice, cassava processing, mini-hydropower, pharmaceuticals, and cotton-to-textile and garment value chains.
He also encouraged Sri Lankan companies to join UNECA and African Union platforms. The Africa Business Forum was among the platforms mentioned.
Gatete called for a shift from individual projects to regional value chains. Such links could help businesses reach larger African markets.
He identified Ethiopia as a possible base for testing new cooperation models. These models could later expand to other African markets.
UNECA also offered to connect Sri Lankan expertise with African institutions and development needs.
The discussions could open new opportunities for trade, investment, technology and knowledge sharing between Sri Lankan businesses and African markets.
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Last modified: September 10, 2026
