As part of ongoing efforts to boost regional cooperation in information and communications technology (ICT), the Sri Lanka Association for Software Services Companies (SLASSCOM) recently held a strategic meeting with Santosh Jha, India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, and Devika Lal, First Secretary Economic & Commercial. The discussions focused on deepening ties between Sri Lanka and India’s thriving tech ecosystems.
The meeting explored opportunities for industry-led partnerships across digital trade, skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Both parties acknowledged the vast potential for cross-border collaboration, with SLASSCOM reaffirming its dedication to initiatives that foster mutual growth, innovation, and technological advancement throughout the region.
“We appreciated the opportunity to engage in an open and productive dialogue with the High Commissioner and his team,” said SLASSCOM Chairman Nishan Mendis. “We are especially grateful to the Indian High Commission for their continued support in strengthening ties between our industries. Our goal as an industry body is to build forward-looking partnerships that unlock value for our ecosystem and contribute to sustainable regional development.”
This engagement builds on recent progress in SLASSCOM’s India outreach. In February, a SLASSCOM delegation participated in India’s premier IT event, the NASSCOM Technology and Leadership Forum (NTLF). There, SLASSCOM held high-level talks with NASSCOM leadership to explore collaboration in talent development, innovation ecosystems, and startup engagement.
These ongoing dialogues underscore both organisations’ commitment to fostering close collaboration and meaningful industry linkages. Multiple new initiatives are under exploration, focused on practical, mutually beneficial outcomes.
High Commissioner Jha welcomed SLASSCOM’s proactive engagement, highlighting the importance of industry-driven dialogue in shaping the region’s digital economy. He emphasized that ICT collaboration is a powerful catalyst for inclusive growth and innovation.
Crucially, the partnership between SLASSCOM and India’s High Commission, alongside growing ties with NASSCOM, is grounded in a shared commitment to economic and technological cooperation, distinct from political considerations. The focus remains on building trusted, mutually beneficial relationships among industries, professionals, and institutions in both nations.
SLASSCOM continues to serve as a regional connector, enabling Sri Lanka’s tech industry to tap into global networks, exchange best practices, and co-create solutions with international partners. With several initiatives underway, SLASSCOM looks forward to strengthening its collaborations with Indian counterparts and other regional markets in the near future.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to maintain open communication channels and pursue concrete next steps to further enhance cooperation and innovation in the ICT sector.
