May-Elin Stener, the Ambassador of Norway to Sri Lanka and India visited Sri Lanka from 2 to 9 May. The visit marks a pivotal moment in the strengthening of bilateral ties between Norway and Sri Lanka as Ambassador Stener engaged in constructive dialogues with key stakeholders, including Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Sri Lanka, Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, the Leader of National People’s Power, Anura Kumara Dissanayaka and ITAK MP, M.A. Sumanthiran.
During her meeting with President Wickremesinghe, Ambassador Stener was briefed on the commendable progress of Norwegian investments and development projects in Sri Lanka. Both parties reiterated their commitment to sustaining the close partnership between the two nations, underscoring mutual interests in various sectors.
A pivotal segment of Ambassador Stener’s diplomatic mission unfolded in discussions with Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, where the positive trends of investments and increasing tourist inflows from Norway to Sri Lanka were discussed. Other crucial topics such as reconciliation efforts, economic reforms and ongoing Norwegian development initiatives within Sri Lanka were also addressed.
Ambassador Stener also had insightful dialogues with key Opposition figures, including Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa. The topics of discussion revolved around Sri Lanka’s economic priorities, with particular emphasis on fostering collaboration in renewable energy, maritime affairs and circular economy initiatives.
Acknowledging the diverse political landscape, Ambassador Stener extended her appreciation to Anura Kumara Dissanayaka for a substantive exchange of views on Sri Lanka’s developmental trajectory. Both parties explored avenues for bolstering Norway’s contributions to Sri Lanka’s development and reconciliation endeavours, identifying promising sectors for enhanced cooperation.
Ambassador Stener’s visit exemplifies Norway’s steadfast commitment to nurturing bilateral relations with Sri Lanka. She is supported by the Honorary Consul General for Norway in Sri Lanka Mano Sekaram and the Consulate Office.