New Zealand has shown interest in supporting Sri Lanka’s export crop production by acquiring and efficiently managing underutilized land. This initiative was discussed during a recent forum organized by the Pathfinder Foundation at the Colombo Club, Taj Samudra, where New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, David Pine, addressed industry experts and media representatives.
The High Commissioner highlighted past cooperation between the two countries in the agricultural and dairy sectors. He pointed to a previously planned dairy farm initiative in Sri Lanka’s Northern and Eastern provinces, which was later discontinued, emphasizing the importance of reviving such programs. New Zealand is also open to providing further assistance in areas such as food safety and phytosanitary standards.
In addition to agriculture, New Zealand aims to facilitate knowledge-sharing and technology transfer in capacity building, climate resilience, and education. This includes establishing educational institutions and expanding student exchange programs.
Trade relations between the two nations currently favor New Zealand, with Sri Lanka importing goods worth over USD 252 million while exporting approximately USD 41 million. High Commissioner Pine underscored the need for closer economic ties to unlock growth potential for both countries. He also noted the increasing presence of South Asian immigrants in New Zealand and evolving geopolitical dynamics as factors driving New Zealand’s engagement in the region.
Regarding trade imbalances, Pine suggested that a focus on global value chains, rather than bilateral trade deficits, would provide a broader perspective on economic cooperation. He also emphasized the importance of governance, parliamentary exchanges, and social ties in strengthening bilateral relations.
Tourism was identified as a key area for growth, with discussions on engaging the Sri Lankan diaspora, improving connectivity, and leveraging shared interests such as sports to enhance cultural and economic exchanges. The forum also highlighted the upcoming 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and New Zealand as an opportunity to reinforce cooperation.
The Pathfinder Foundation has previously conducted similar discussions with representatives from France, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The forum was chaired by Bernard Gunathilake, Chairman of the Pathfinder Foundation.
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