An online discussion on unlocking the opportunities to grow sustainable trade and investment between the Netherlands and Sri Lanka by introducing the key agencies and organisations that provide guidance and practical support to entrepreneurs seeking connections, partners and investors was held recently.
The webinar, facilitated by European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (ECCSL), was the first in a series of three and was organised as a part of the program to celebrate the 70th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations between The Netherlands and Sri Lanka.
The next sustainable trade webinars focusing on specific sectors are scheduled for February 15 and March 1.
The panel of speakers participating were: BOI Chairman Raja A. Edirisuriya and Executive Director, Investment Promotion, BOI, Prasanjith Wijayatilake, Director, Market Development, Sri Lanka Export Development Board, Anoma Premathilake, President Sri Lanka Benelux Business Council, Maahen Kariyawasan, and Investment Manager at Invest International in the Netherlands, Miriam Valstar.
Speaking from the Netherlands, Ms. Valstar explained that Invest International supports companies linked with the Netherlands to do business in Sri Lanka in a sustainable way. Edirisuriya said that the BOI facilitates individual companies investing in Sri Lanka including guidance on the legal framework.
Ms. Premathilake said that the EDB plays the role of a mentor and a facilitator in reaching new markets and identifying industry trends including on sustainability for which they are planning awareness sessions.
Kariyawasan said that the Benelux Council encourages their members to practice sustainable initiatives while it engages in match-making between Sri Lankan and Benelux companies.Companies are encouraged to reach out to these organisations for support to deepen trade relations between Sri Lanka and The Netherlands.
The event also launched the ‘Sustainable Mobility’ call for proposals, where The Netherlands Embassy is calling for ideas on practical solutions that would help stimulate work-home cycling at your workplace.