Ambassador of Sri Lanka Contributes to UNESCAP Side Event on Digital Technologies for Sustainable Development

The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Thailand and the Permanent Representative to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) Wijayanthi Edirisinghe invited to attend a panel discussion at the BIMSTEC-ESCAP side event held during the 81st ESCAP Commission Session under the theme “Harnessing Digital Technologies for Sustainable Development in the Bay of Bengal Region.” On 23.04.2025.

The side event, co-organized by ESCAP’s Subregional Office for South and South-West Asia in collaboration with the BIMSTEC Secretariat, served as a platform for policymakers, experts, and industry leaders to explore strategies for harnessing digitalization to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the Bay of Bengal region.

Addressing the distinguished gathering, the Ambassador shared Sri Lanka’s experiences and aspirations in leveraging digital technologies for national development. Highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Sri Lanka as an island nation, she emphasized that digital connectivity and the strategic use of technology are vital to reducing trade and economic costs. She elaborated on Sri Lanka’s ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure, noting that the country is prioritizing the rapid development of its digital economy as a key pillar of economic growth.

The Ambassador Edirisinghe outlined Sri Lanka’s national ambition to become South Asia’s leading digital economy by 2030, propelled by expansive broadband expansion, the progressive deployment of 5G networks, and landmark projects such as the Colombo Port City, which is poised to become a regional financial and innovation hub.

Speaking in her capacity as Sri Lanka’s lead representative for the BIMSTEC sectors of Science, Technology and Innovation; Public Health; and Human Resource Development, the Ambassador reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to advancing cooperation in these areas.

The Ambassador further emphasized that collaboration with BIMSTEC and UNESCAP can significantly strengthen Sri Lanka’s digital transformation and trade facilitation goals, contributing meaningfully to regional economic integration and sustainable development.

The side event successfully highlighted the critical role of digitalization in promoting economic resilience and inclusive growth across the Bay of Bengal region.

Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka
Bangkok
27.04.2025