UK Trade Envoy Lord Hannett To Visit Sri Lanka Tomorrow

COLOMBO (News 1st); The United Kingdom’s Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka, Lord Hannett of Everton, is set to return to Colombo from June 17 to 19, marking his second visit within the span of a year.

The three-day visit is expected to focus on strengthening trade and investment links, with a series of high-level engagements involving both government and private sector stakeholders. 

The visit highlights the UK’s continued commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s economic progress, encouraging a more transparent and predictable business environment, and building long-term partnerships that contribute to sustainable growth.

During the visit, Lord Hannett is scheduled to meet with Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti and Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, along with senior officials from the Export Development Board and the Department of Commerce. These discussions will centre on Sri Lanka’s ongoing reform agenda, improving access for UK businesses, and expanding export opportunities under the UK’s Developing Countries Trade Scheme.

Beyond government-level talks, Lord Hannett will also engage extensively with the private sector, meeting leading business figures and organizations, including the Council for Business with Britain. 

He will also hold discussions with Sri Lanka’s apparel industry representatives, small and medium-sized exporters, and young entrepreneurs. 

Ahead of the visit, Lord Hannett expressed optimism about strengthening cooperation between the two countries, stating that he looks forward to meeting government partners and business leaders to explore new ways to support growth and create opportunities on both sides.

He also highlighted the UK’s commitment to helping its businesses succeed internationally while building mutually beneficial partnerships with countries like Sri Lanka.