President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, along with his delegation, arrived at Dubai International Airport yesterday afternoon (10) to participate in the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025, which is scheduled to take place from February 11 to 13 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 

Upon arrival, the delegation, including the President, was warmly welcomed by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and other state officials.

Also present at the reception were Sri Lankan Embassy to the United Arab Emirates Charge d’ Affaires Thakshila Arnolda and Consul General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and the Northern Emirates Alexi Gunasekera, along with representatives from the Sri Lankan Embassy in Dubai.

President Dissanayake was scheduled to meet with Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Chairman of the Master Investment Group and the ruler’s representative for Ras Al Khaimah yesterday afternoon.

During this meeting, discussions will focus on strengthening economic and investment cooperation between Sri Lanka and the UAE.

Following the said discussion, the President is expected to attend the ‘TIME 100 Gala Dinner’ at the renowned Museum of the Future in Dubai.

During this visit, President Dissanayake is scheduled to address the 2025 World Governments Summit in Dubai.

The primary objective of the World Governments Summit is to foster a global dialogue by bringing together world leaders in a single forum to discuss futuristic approaches, technological innovations, and other key topics. The summit serves as a platform for nations to exchange knowledge on current global challenges, emerging trends, and new opportunities. Representatives from over 150 countries and more than 4,000 participants are expected to attend the event.

In addition to attending the summit, President Dissanayake is set to hold bilateral discussions with Heads of State and Government leaders from several participating countries.

A bilateral meeting between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is also scheduled, with the Sri Lankan Government anticipating enhanced cooperation between the two nations across multiple sectors.

Furthermore, during his visit, President Dissanayake is expected to meet with UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

To attract investments to Sri Lanka, President Dissanayake will engage in discussions with top executives from leading global corporations in sectors such as Information Technology (IT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), energy, tourism, finance and media.

Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath is accompanying the President on this visit.