Sri Lanka and Thailand Discuss Strengthening Labour Cooperation

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Thailand, Wijayanthi Edirisinghe, met with the Minister of Labour of Thailand, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn on 10th March 2025 to discuss strengthening labour cooperation between the two countries. The meeting was held in a spirit of mutual collaboration and reinforced the long-standing bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand, particularly in the areas of trade, tourism, and labour cooperation.

During the discussion, Ambassador Edirisinghe acknowledged and appreciated the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two countries. She emphasized the valuable contribution of Sri Lankan migrant workers to the Thai economy and highlighted the importance of further strengthening labour cooperation. The Ambassador also requested emerging opportunities for Sri Lankan workers in Thailand, particularly in the hospitality, IT and services sectors, where skilled Sri Lankan professionals could contribute effectively.

Minister of Labour, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, acknowledged the presence of approximately 500 Sri Lankan workers currently employed in Thailand and expressed his willingness to explore further avenues for cooperation. He noted the demand for high-level professionals, particularly in the IT sector and as language teachers in schools, and welcomed Sri Lankan skilled workers in these areas. The Minister also requested the Embassy’s support in assisting Thai businessmen and investors operating in Sri Lanka.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Labour of Thailand, including the Vice Minister of Labour, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Advisor to the Minister of Labour, Advisor of the Prime Minister’s Office attached to the Ministry of Labour, Director General of the Department of Employment, Director General of the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare and Deputy Director General of the Department of Skill Development. First Secretary/Head of Chancery, A.W.S. Samanmali and Counsellor (Commercial), Vireshika Bandara of the Embassy also joined the discussion.

The meeting concluded with both sides reiterating their commitment to enhancing labour cooperation and exploring opportunities to further strengthen bilateral ties between Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka
Bangkok
10th March 2025