JAFFNA, – A delegation from the Embassy of Viet Nam in Sri Lanka, led
by k Trinh Thi Tam, Ambassador of Viet Nam, concluded a three-day official
visit to Sri Lanka’s Northern Province from 17–19 November 2025.
The visit aimed to explore opportunities for collaboration between Viet Nam and the Northern Province, with a focus on strengthening economic, trade, investment and tourism linkages.
High-Level Engagement with Provincial Leadership
On 17 November, Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam paid a courtesy call on the Northern Province
Governor, f Nagalingam Vethanayahan. She also held discussions with Chief Secretary
Thanuja Murugeson and senior local government representatives in key sectors including
Agriculture, Education, Health and Tourism.
Ambassador Tam commended the province for its continued progress in economic recovery,
social development, security, and efforts to uplift living standards despite long-standing
challenges. She reiterated Viet Nam’s interest in expanding cooperation in agriculture,
fisheries, livestock, tourism, trade, and investment. Strengthening provincial-level
partnerships, the Ambassador noted, would enable both sides to build on their comparative
advantages as bilateral relations continue to grow positively after 55 years of establishment
(1970-2025).Governor Vethanayahan emphasized the strategic importance of the Northern Province
as Sri Lanka’s closest gateway to Southeast Asia. Highlighting the region’s fertile land, long
coastline, and abundant natural resources, he noted strong potential for agribusiness,
aquaculture, livestock development, tourism, logistics and renewable energy.
Hon. Governor further outlined the province’s priorities—including industrial zones, special
economic zones, and logistics infrastructure—and welcomed Vietnamese investors to explore
opportunities in export-oriented agro-processing, infrastructure development, education,
healthcare, and renewable energy.
Local authorities also briefed the delegation on challenges faced by the province, such as gaps
in infrastructure, lack of processing facilities, and industrial capacity, especially value-added
industries. They expressed hope for enhanced cooperation, technical support and skill training
from Viet Nam in these areas
