Innovation Island Summit II Announced for Sri Lanka in May 2026

COLOMBO (News 1st); The world is advancing rapidly with AI and emerging technologies, creating unprecedented opportunities for innovation and growth.

These changes are opening new doors for the younger generation to lead and succeed in a transforming global landscape.

Against this backdrop, an exciting announcement was made today in Cape Town, South Africa - the upcoming launch of a landmark international summit in Sri Lanka next year: the second phase of the Innovation Island Summit.

Dr. Samir Saran, President of the Observer Research Foundation, stated that this summit that will be organized together with the Capital Maharaja Group and the Indian High Commission in Colombo, will create a new platform to strengthen cooperation across the Global South.

“Cape Town provides the perfect stage to announce the next edition of the Innovation Summit. Africa and South Asia are driving a new narrative — one built on partnership, mutual respect, and shared innovation. Last year’s summit in Colombo proved that Sri Lanka can convene the world with purpose and ambition. Innovation Summit II will push that ambition even further, offering new platforms for collaboration and creativity across the Global South.”

Group Director of The Capital Maharaja Group, Chevaan Daniel, announced that the Innovation Island Conference will be held on May 11 and 12 next year.

“I believe Sri Lanka has a unique opportunity to showcase its leadership in technology and innovation to the world. If Sri Lanka is to lead globally, technology will be the key driver. Beyond that, we are confident this summit will create incredible opportunities for our youth through engagement with international investors and global leaders. Therefore, I am delighted to announce that the Innovation Island Summit will be held in Sri Lanka in May next year.”

The first phase of the Innovation Island Summit was held in Colombo last February with the participation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The summit brought together ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, diplomats, business leaders, and top experts from over 50 countries worldwide.

It also provided a premier platform for university students and youth to present new ideas and engage in dialogue. This year, those opportunities will be further expanded.