Lanka seeks stronger ASEAN ties

Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has held discussions with ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn on strengthening Sri Lanka’s engagement with ASEAN and expanding regional cooperation on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) 2026 in Manila.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Minister Herath described the meeting as productive, saying both sides exchanged views on ARF-related activities and the importance of closer cooperation between Sri Lanka and ASEAN member states.

The discussions also focused on enhancing trade relations and strengthening people-to-people connectivity between Sri Lanka and ASEAN countries, he said.

“Look forward to closely working with the Secretary-General for further enhancing our friendly relations,” Herath stated.

Meanwhile, Minister Herath participated in the High-Level Conference of the High Contracting Parties to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in Southeast Asia held in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

The conference was convened to mark the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, bringing together foreign ministers and senior representatives of ASEAN member states and dialogue partners to reaffirm their commitment to peace, stability, mutual respect and regional cooperation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

During the commemorative proceedings, Herath joined fellow foreign ministers and heads of delegations for official events marking the golden jubilee of the treaty, highlighting Sri Lanka’s continued commitment to strengthening its partnership with ASEAN and promoting regional dialogue and cooperation.