Reading Time: < 1 min read

Ravindra Deyshappriya, Research Director of the Global Economy programme, made an invited presentation on Sri Lanka – China Economic Relations in Comparative Context, on 2 February 2017 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The presentation was attended by around 40 Foreign Ministry officials.

Ravindra’s presentation was delivered as part of Ministry’s new “brown bag” series of seminars. Like other brown bag series, this initiative provides an opportunity for participants to engage in new ideas and research on topics relevant to their work.  LKI is honoured that it was invited to make the first contribution to the series by the Hon. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Harsha de Silva.

Ravindra’s presentation drew on his recent working paper, and highlighted policy priorities arising from this research to increase exports, investment and tourism vis-à-vis China. It was followed by an extended, interactive discussion with all participants, chaired by the Hon. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The discussion, conducted under the Chatham House Rule, focused on brainstorming the proposals in Ravindra’s presentation as well as related suggestions made by several Foreign Ministry officials for expanding Sri Lanka – China relations.  LKI was invited to provide a summary of recommendations from the session.