Bangladesh and Sri Lanka enjoy seamless, deep, diverse relations. They have always enjoyed excellent bilateral relations based on commonality of views and the non-conflicting nature of relations. The cordiality of relations has been reflected in the frequent exchange of visits at various levels including the highest levels.
The bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are multifaceted in nature and rooted in shared history and commonalities in culture, traditions, values and ethos. The Bangladesh High Commission in Sri Lanka was established on 21 April 1976, although diplomatic relations between the two countries began even prior to that, in early 70s. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are members of SAARC, BIMSTEC, NAM, Commonwealth, IOR-ARC & the UN, and have common approaches to most of the contemporary regional and international issues.
The excellent bilateral relationship enjoys a steady tenor which is particularly evident from the exchange of high level visits. The friendly relationship also becomes evident from a number of meetings between the leaderships of the two countries including the Hon’ble Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the Hon’ble President & the Hon’ble Prime Minister of Sri Lanka in the sidelines of various international events where the leaders had the opportunity to discuss and share ideas on issues of mutual interest and concern.
Both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka face similar developmental challenges and could benefit from each other’s experience. The two countries are consistently cooperating with each other in various forums on a multitude of issues.
Sri Lanka recognized Bangladesh on 4 March 1972 in only three months from Bangladesh’s independence. On 4 March 2022, the two countries commenced the joint celebration of the 50 years of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Many Sri Lankans – mostly professionals - are gainfully employed in Bangladesh for past 2-3 decades. Initially, they went for employment in Apparel and few other Service sectors. Currently, they are working especially in the fields of garment, freight forwarding, banking, information technology and telecommunication manufacturing, logistics, education, telecommunication, IT and health sectors.