The Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Netherlands recently hosted an online dialogue aimed at strengthening ICT collaboration between Sri Lanka and the Dutch innovation ecosystem. The session brought together the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan ICT professionals based in the Netherlands.
Addressing the meeting, Ambassador Rekha Gunasekera highlighted the impactful role the Sri Lankan diaspora can play in advancing the country’s digital transformation by fostering partnerships with the Netherlands and sharing insights on the latest developments in ICT and innovation. She also expressed her gratitude for the diaspora’s continued willingness to support national progress in the digital sector.
Director of Industry Development at ICTA, Chiranthi Balapatabendi conveyed the agency’s appreciation for the Embassy’s support in advancing the national ICT strategy and identifying potential avenues for cooperation in innovation between the two countries. She outlined the key pillars of Sri Lanka’s ICT roadmap, which include expanding digital literacy, fostering innovation, and connecting the country’s vibrant and competitive start-up ecosystem with international markets, such as the Netherlands. Balapatabendi also elaborated on Sri Lanka’s target of achieving USD 5 billion in annual foreign revenue from the ICT sector by 2030 through a comprehensive strategy.
Emphasising the diaspora’s valuable role in unlocking access to the Dutch market, ICTA shared updates on Sri Lanka’s digital transformation efforts and outlined specific sectors and avenues where diaspora engagement could be most impactful. Discussions centred on opportunities in venture capital, start-up support, and emerging fields such as food-tech, edu-tech, and agriculture. Special attention was given to navigating Dutch investment frameworks and enhancing Sri Lanka’s visibility on global platforms, including Disrupt Asia 2025.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
The Hague
25 June 2025
