Harsha says economic diplomacy his topmost priority

25 September 2015 02:31 am

Deputy Foreign Minister Dr. Harsha de Silva said that the foremost duty falling upon him will be to conduct commercial diplomacy.

He was making the comments at the National Chamber of Exporters Annual Awards Ceremony last week, before the assignment of subjects for each ministry.

Dr. de Silva noted that being given a portfolio in Foreign Affairs despite being an economist would be a challenge but said he would strive to deliver the results expected.

He said that Sri Lankan diplomats, trade counsellors and networks in overseas missions would be utilized to promote Sri Lankan exports, attract foreign direct investments, advance Sri Lankan business interests overseas and to bring substantial economic growth through these activities.

He added that bilateral and multilateral trade relationships would be pursued and that he will embark on a programme to continuously monitor the activities of the trade counsellors and diplomats related to promotion of trade and investments.  

While an Economic Affairs Division exists within the Foreign Affairs Ministry, it would be limited to ‘promoting’ such activities, as the Industry and Commerce Ministry remains vested with the decision-making powers related to trade following the gazette notification allocating ministry subjects this week.

Further, trade counsellors are also provided by the Industry and Commerce Ministry, bringing to question how much of an authority Dr. de Silva would have on them and whether he would be allowed to monitor their activities.

Only 23 trade officials are active in Sri Lankan missions overseas, spread across 19 countries depending on the volume of bilateral trade. (CW)