Namal calls for Sri Lanka to become key link in ‘Indian Ocean Century’

Colombo, July 16 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has called for Sri Lanka to position itself as a key economic and strategic link connecting Asia, the Middle East and Africa, saying the world is entering an “Indian Ocean Century”.

Speaking at the Global Economic Cooperation (GEC) East Summit in Singapore, Namal said the Indian Ocean region was not merely entering a decade of significance, but a century that would be shaped by its growing economic and strategic importance.

Namal participated in a panel discussion alongside Curtis S. Chin, Chair of Senior Fellows at the Milken Institute and former U.S. Ambassador to the Asian Development Bank, where he outlined his vision for Sri Lanka’s role in regional connectivity and economic cooperation.

He said Sri Lanka must develop into a trusted bridge between major regions while creating opportunities for youth through innovation, collaboration and entrepreneurship.

“The Indian Ocean has connected civilizations for centuries. Now, it must connect the future,” Namal said, highlighted the importance of preparing the next generation to lead in a rapidly evolving global economy.