OLOMBO : Sri Lanka delegation headed by Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Saudi Arabia Ameer Ajwad participated at the Global Industry Summit during the 21st Session of the General Conference of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 23 – 27 November 2025.
Delivering the national statement during the General Debate, Ambassador Ameer Ajwad outlined Sri Lanka’s industrial policies which align with the general principles of promoting clean energy, circular economy, and reducing poverty. He also highlighted Sri Lanka’s strong partnership with UNIDO noting the Organization’s valuable support in strengthening vital industrial sectors in Sri Lanka and improving compliance with the international standards.
Sri Lanka joined the Riyadh Declaration of the UNIDO which was adopted during the 21 General Conference, calling for stronger cooperation between governments, businesses and civil society to ensure that industrialisation leads to greener economies, fair opportunities, and improved livelihoods.
Saudi Arabia was elected as the chair of the 21st Session of the UNIDO General Conference and Gerd Müller was re-appointed as the Director General of the UNIDO.
The 21st General Conference brought together 5,000 delegates from 173 countries including business representatives, civil society, academia and other international stakeholders.
Sri Lanka delegation included Mohamed Anas, Minister/Head of Chancery and Tashma Vithanawasam, First Secretary/Trade of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh.
