Minister of Environment, Hon. Dr. Dammika Patabendi interacted at the Informal Ministerial Roundtable on 'challenges at national level to address plastic pollution' on 12 August 2025, held during the second part of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution (INC 5.2) which is being held from 05-14 August 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Distinguished Co-Chairs, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Sri Lanka extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of Switzerland for hosting this important meeting, and to the INC Secretariat for their tireless efforts and continued dedication towards the development of an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.
Sri Lanka is fully committed to addressing plastic pollution and has taken several proactive measures over the years. Among these, we have imposed restrictions on selected single-use plastic items, including plastic food containers, plates, cups, and cutlery. These measures reflect our national commitment to reduce the environmental footprint of plastic waste.
We are currently amended the National Environmental Act to further strengthen our regulatory framework. One of the key features of this amendment is the formal integration of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which we believe is critical for ensuring sustainable production and consumption patterns.
Sri Lanka has also developed robust policy frameworks, including the National Policy on Waste Management and the National Policy on Chemical Management. These provide the foundation for a comprehensive approach to managing plastic and hazardous Chemicals across sectors.
A significant milestone was the launch of the National Action Plan on Plastic Waste Management 2021–2030, which sets out a clear and structured roadmap for tackling plastic waste based on 3R concept. In parallel, a nationwide awareness campaign on plastic pollution has been implemented with the support of international development partners, focusing on behavioral change and public engagement.
The engagement of informal waste collectors who form a critical link in the recycling chain continues to be one of Sri Lanka’s key strengths in advancing circularity in plastic management
Challenges at national level to address plastic pollution.
Even though, Sri Lanka has taken proactive measures over the year, we face several challenges that require international attention and collaboration.
First, we urge global standards to ensure that children’s products such as infant feeding bottles and slippy cups are free from hazardous chemicals, including phthalates and BPA. Transparency in the chemical content of plastic products is essential for both health and environmental protection.
Second, with regard to Article 7 on release and leakage, we strongly advocate for mandatory global packaging standards that prevent plastic leaching into marine ecosystems. The MV X-Press Pearl disaster, which released over 12,000 metric tons of plastic pellets into our coastal waters, remains a devastating example of the irreversible consequences of plastic leakage.
We also face technical, social, and economic barriers to implementation such as limited infrastructure for advanced recycling, lack of behavioral change at the community level, and financial constraints for innovation in biodegradable alternatives.
To overcome these, Sri Lanka calls for enhanced global cooperation to:
- Strengthen the science-policy interface;
- Support public awareness campaigns;
- Facilitate technical exchange programs, and policy development.
Plastic pollution is a global crisis. Let us act now together with urgency, clarity, and equity.
Excellencies, we believe that the legally binding instrument under negotiation must incorporate a comprehensive approach across the full lifecycle of plastics and provide enabling mechanisms for implementation, particularly for developing countries.
Sri Lanka stands ready to work constructively with all partners to achieve a global agreement that is ambitious, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the most vulnerable.
Thank you.
6 August 2025 — The Government of Sri Lanka has formally deposited its instrument of acceptance of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, becoming one of the latest WTO members to take this important step towards protecting global marine resources. With this ratification, only four more acceptances are needed for the Agreement to enter into force.
This ratification reflects Sri Lanka’s steadfast commitment to sustainable ocean governance and responsible fisheries management, consistent with national policies articulated under the “Thriving Nation and a Beautiful Life” framework. The Agreement prohibits subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing and to the exploitation of overfished stocks — both critical concerns for coastal and island nations such as Sri Lanka.
Fisheries remain a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s food security, export economy, and coastal livelihoods. By aligning national legislation, with global disciplines, Sri Lanka is strengthening its capacity to sustainably manage marine resources while enhancing its credibility in key international markets.
This step also supports Sri Lanka’s broader blue economy agenda and builds on recent international commitments, including signing into the UN Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). The ratification enables Sri Lanka to access technical and financial assistance through the WTO Fisheries Fund, which supports developing countries in implementing sustainable fisheries practices.
The Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted by consensus at the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference in 2022, is the first WTO agreement with an explicit environmental sustainability focus. It is also a significant contribution toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14.6, which calls for the elimination of harmful fisheries subsidies.
Sri Lanka’s ratification underscores its leadership in global ocean stewardship and its readiness to engage in cooperative efforts to ensure the sustainability of marine ecosystems for current and future generations.
Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka
to the World Trade Organization in Geneva
07 August 2025
General Debate on
A world in turmoil: Parliamentary cooperation and multilateralism for peace, justice and prosperity for all
Dr. Tulia Ackson, President of the IPU,
Distinguished Speakers of Parliament,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is both a privilege and a responsibility to address this Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament at a time when the world is experiencing deep and widespread turmoil. On behalf of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, I extend my sincere appreciation to the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the United Nations for convening this essential dialogue under this timely theme.
In this era marked by conflict, political instability, climate anxiety and economic hardship, the human family faces unprecedented uncertainty. In such a world, the role of Parliaments is more critical than ever before. We serve not only as lawmakers but also as guardians of democratic legitimacy, as advocates for justice, and as instruments of peacebuilding and accountability.
Parliamentary diplomacy and multilateral cooperation are vital tools for rebuilding global trust. Through our bilateral and multilateral engagements, which include Parliamentary friendship groups, Parliamentary networks, study visits and delegations, we have the ability to foster understanding, mediate conflict and advance shared human values. These platforms allow Parliaments to learn from one another, strengthen democratic practices, and collectively address cross-border challenges such as terrorism, pandemics, migration and cyber threats.
Parliament of Sri Lanka has long embraced this spirit of cooperation. We have been a proud member of the Inter-Parliamentary Union since 1949 and of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association since our independence in 1948. We are also a founding member of the Association of SAARC Speakers and Parliamentarians. These partnerships have allowed our Parliamentarians and staff to gain valuable experience and build institutional capacity through training, dialogue and exchange.
Notably, Sri Lanka has hosted several seminars and conferences in collaboration with IPU and CPA, underscoring our commitment to multilateral Parliamentary engagement. With friendship associations established with over 50 countries, the Parliament of Sri Lanka continues to expand its role in regional and global diplomacy. We also actively promote Parliamentary cooperation through international youth exchange and professional development programmes, helping to build the next generation of democratic leaders.
Excellencies,
Parliamentary cooperation is not symbolic, it is strategic. When we act together, we reinforce the foundations of peace, prosperity and justice. Our cooperation strengthens the legitimacy of international norms, amplifies the voices of our citizens and bridges the divides among nations, communities and cultures.
We in Sri Lanka have seen how dialogue and reconciliation, even after a prolonged conflict, can guide a nation forward. Our Parliament is committed to advancing inclusive governance, constitutional reform and peacebuilding through democratic channels.
As we mark the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, established by the UN General Assembly, we reaffirm that Parliaments have a decisive role in turning global ambitions into national action. It is our duty to bring the people's voice into international policymaking and to translate international commitments into meaningful local realities.
Madame President,
Let us leave this Conference not only with new perspectives, but with renewed purpose. The world may be in turmoil, but through Parliamentary cooperation and multilateral solidarity, we can help restore stability, justice and dignity for all.
Thank you.
The third meeting of experts on the Migration Partnership between Sri Lanka and Switzerland was held in Bern on 29 July 2025. Sugeeshwara Gunaratna, Director General/Europe & North America at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, and Ambassador Hendrick Krauskopf, Director/International Affairs of the State Secretariat for Migration of the Swiss Federal Department of Justice and Police, co-chaired the meeting.
The meeting reviewed the progress made under the Migration Partnership since its launch in 2016 and discussed the future trajectory of the partnership after the formal handing over of the bilateral Safe Labour Migration Program (SLMP) to the Government of Sri Lanka last year. This programme was funded by Switzerland and underscores the commitment to institutionalizing sustainable frameworks for the protection and welfare of Sri Lankan migrant workers.
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration and maximizing the benefits of migration for both migrant workers and members of their families in both origin and destination countries. In this regard, discussions focused on pre-departure orientation, migration management, skills development, readmission and reintegration, and combating human trafficking. In particular, further Swiss assistance for the skills development of Sri Lankan migrant workers and strengthening collaboration with the National Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force (NAHTTF) were discussed.
The two sides also exchanged views on current migration trends in both countries and opportunities for Sri Lankan workers through the development and recognition of the domestic skills development framework. The Sri Lanka delegation also comprised representatives of the Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau, the Department of Immigration and Emigration, as well as the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in Geneva. The Switzerland delegation comprised representatives of the State Secretariat for Migration, the Federal Office of Police, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism
Colombo
29 July 2025
Statement by Sri Lanka
Second session of the open-ended working group on the prevention of an arms race in outer space in all its aspects, 21-25 July 2025, Palais des Nations, Geneva
Item 5 – General Exchange of Views
Mr. Chair
Sri Lanka also joins other delegations in appreciating your leadership as the Chair of this Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG). I extend Sri Lanka´s fullest support and cooperation for the success of the deliberations of the Working Group.
Sri Lanka appreciates your leadership during the first session of the OEWG as well as during the informal consultations and guidance to the second session.
Mr. Chair,
The discussions on prevention of an arms race in outer space are not new to us. We have been discussing the related issues over decades. Therefore, rather than starting from scratch, the OEWG can leverage from where we are, while building on existing discussions and efforts in multilateral fora.
We believe that this working group provides an opportunity for Member States to advance discussions on both legally binding and non-legally binding measures in outer space disarmament under a single framework.
Sri Lanka has been engaging for decades on the matters of prevention of an arms race in outer space, and has been advocating for a legally binding instrument. We also wish to underline the vital importance of verification mechanisms as an integral part of a legally binding instrument. While understanding the current dynamics in space faring activities by States, we believe that this fundamental goal has to be achieved in a balanced and inclusive approach under a comprehensive framework, which recognizes the concerns of all States, and works on the basis of consensus.
The UNGA resolution 79/19 titled ‘prevention of an arms race in outer space’ which is annually presented by Sri Lanka together with Egypt emphasizes “the paramount importance of strict compliance with existing arms limitation and disarmament agreements relevant to outer space, including bilateral agreements, and with the existing legal regime concerning the use of outer space”
The resolution also emphasizes “the necessity of further measures with appropriate and effective provisions for verification to prevent an arms race in outer space” while referring to the important work carried out so far in multilateral fora on outer space disarmament.
From the point where we are today, we all need to strive to agree on a pragmatic way forward to achieve our common goals in outer space disarmament in all aspects.
Sri Lanka also takes this opportunity to underscore that weaponizing of outer space would disproportionately affect all states. We urge this Working Group therefore to adequately listen to the voice of the developing countries that rely on peaceful uses of outer space and space-based assets, particularly satellite technology for communication, disaster management, and climate impact monitoring and resilience. Sri Lanka encourages regional consultations and dialogues particularly among the non-spacefaring states with a view to ensure inclusivity.
Mr. Chair,
It is the responsibility of all States to ensure that outer space remains a shared heritage of humankind, free from conflict and accessible to all nations for peaceful purposes.
While reiterating Sri Lanka’s support to your efforts to bring us on to a pragmatic direction, we believe that a balanced, inclusive and consensus-based approach that considers the concerns of all states will be useful in achieving our common goals.
Thank you
Mr. Chairman,
Sri Lanka congratulates you, the Director General, and the WIPO Secretariat for the successful organization of these Assemblies. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by the distinguished delegate of Pakistan on behalf of the APG.
Sri Lanka places high importance on the protection of IP and the commercialization of innovation.
We commend WIPO’s leadership in the adoption of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty, a milestone in simplifying global design registration.
Earlier this year, Sri Lanka signed an MOU with WIPO to enhance IP services through digitization, system upgrades, and capacity building. The digitization of our IP documents, expected to conclude by December, will significantly improve our IPAS system and enable modernized services, including online filing and search.
We are also making progress toward ratifying the Madrid Protocol and thank the Madrid Registry for its valuable support. Deployment of the system is expected soon after digitization is complete.
In copyright, we are introducing a voluntary registration and depository system, alongside strengthening CMOs to better serve right holders.
Mr. Chairman, we have enacted legislation to register GI, providing stronger protection for iconic Sri Lankan products such as Ceylon Tea, Cinnamon, and Gems.
We remain committed to fostering innovation, expanding the TISC network, and continuing collaboration with WIPO on the Global Innovation Index and innovation ecosystem development.
As a country rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, we are advancing a national policy and legal framework for TK , recognizing its vital place in our IP system.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka expresses its deep appreciation to WIPO for its continued support and reaffirms our commitment to a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-looking IP system.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
‘Smart Drain’, designed and developed by Dr. Nadeesha Chandrasena and team from Sri Lanka, was among the ten winners of the prestigious WIPO Global Awards which celebrate world changing innovations in health, climate, agrifood, creative industries and ICT. The prestigious award ceremony was held in Geneva on 11 July 2025, where WIPO Director General Daren Tang presented the trophies to the winning innovators.
WIPO Global Awards recognize startups and Small and Medium Enterprises that have successfully leveraged Intellectual Property to transform their innovations into tangible economic and social impact. The winners were selected by a diverse, independent international jury with unique expertise in IP, innovation, the creative industries, investment and business.
‘Smart Drains’ is a storm water drainage system designed to prevent urban flooding when even conventional drains are blocked by waste, and offers a practical and scalable solution for climate resilient infrastructure preventing drain overflow by separating solid matter from the drain water and allowing interruption-free operation.
This is the first time that a Sri Lankan invention has won this prestigious award from WIPO. Smart Drain was awarded the trophy under the environment category, while the 10 winners were selected from a highly competitive list of more than 800 applicants across 95 countries.
More information about Smart Drain is available at https://smartdrain.network/.
Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the UN
Geneva
11th July 2025
- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk concludes official visit to Sri Lanka
- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to Visit Sri Lanka
- Statement by Ambassador and Permanent Representative Himali Arunatilaka during the Interactive Dialogue on the Annual Report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights at the HRC 59, 17 June 2025