Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, met with Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of Sri Lanka, on the second day of the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025, held in Dubai. This high-level discussion focused on strengthening the close bilateral ties between the UAE and Sri Lanka, underscoring the importance of cooperation on global governance challenges. The World Governments Summit 2025, held under the theme “Shaping Future Governments,” convened over 30 heads of state and government, more than 80 international and regional organizations, and 140 government delegations. The summit also gathered key decision-makers from around the world, offering a platform to explore major future trends and transformations. The agenda featured 21 global forums and over 200 interactive sessions, with more than 300 distinguished speakers including presidents, ministers, thought leaders, and experts.
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Additionally, over 30 ministerial meetings and roundtables were conducted, attended by more than 400 ministers. The summit will continue until February 13. Furthermore, the meeting between Sheikh Mohammed and President Dissanayake was attended by prominent leaders, including Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Also present were Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council; Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the World Governments Summit; and Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation.
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During their discussions, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the importance of global coordination in tackling economic and developmental challenges. He noted that the UAE is dedicated to strengthening its partnership with Sri Lanka, building on the significant progress made in recent years. Sheikh Mohammed also acknowledged Sri Lanka’s efforts to establish international collaborations and share expertise with global leaders in governance and strategic sectors. For his part, President Dissanayake expressed his gratitude to the UAE for its continued support in the development of vital sectors in Sri Lanka. He highlighted the marked improvement in bilateral relations, particularly in areas such as investment, trade, and tourism. President Dissanayake also praised the role of the World Governments Summit in fostering international partnerships, enhancing global governance practices, and empowering decision-makers to navigate future challenges.
The World Governments Summit 2025 serves as a crucial platform for governments, businesses, and organizations worldwide to collaborate, exchange ideas, and explore innovative solutions to global challenges. With its robust agenda, the summit is poised to contribute to shaping the future of governance, with a special focus on technological, economic, and social transformation. This year’s gathering also includes the publication of 30 strategic reports in collaboration with international knowledge partners, offering vital insights into key issues facing the world. As the summit progresses, the UAE and Sri Lanka reaffirm their commitment to deepening their bilateral ties and working together to address shared challenges, marking another milestone in their strong and evolving partnership.
