Andrew Patrick

Welcome news for British tourists and Sri Lankans for the winter season. Recognise there’s been a lot of disruption. Good to have a new direct route to Colombo from October to the Spring. mediacentre.britishairways.com/news/16032026/…

A proud moment for 🇱🇰 as Marine biologist @ashadevos's portrait was featured at the opening of the UN General Assembly for International Women’s Day. Her message, “They told me I was not capable, so I made a discovery that changed the world.” echoes the need to support women.

British nationals in Sri Lanka impacted by Middle East flight disruptions: Sri Lanka has announced a free 14-day visa extension for foreign nationals unable to depart due to airspace closures. Further details: presidentsoffice.gov.lk/in-response-to…

Minister @Chathurangaab joined me in touring Maersk Sri Lanka’s advanced logistics operations. They handle country consolidation operations for several UK brands. With exports expected to expand following latest DCTS reforms, the whole‑economy value chain stands to benefit.

Great to meet John Lyttle, MD of M&S Fashion, Home & Beauty, in Colombo. With the UK’s DCTS offering zero‑tariff access for apparel, M&S sees strong potential to deepen its long‑standing partnership with Sri Lanka through innovation and expanded sourcing.

Together with Minister @Chathurangaab I visited NEXT Sourcing’s Central Inspection Facility at Speedmark. This is one of the largest NEXT global hubs managing Multi‑Country Consolidation. With DCTS reforms for apparel, NEXT’s sourcing from Sri Lanka is set to grow by over 10%.

Proud to see 🇬🇧🇱🇰 partnership in action. Experts from @UniversityofPlymouth joined Sri Lanka's maritime sector at @RCMS to strengthen cyber resilience, supporting a free & open Indo-Pacific. Exactly what @FCDOGovUK Indian Ocean Maritime Security Programme is for. #CyberSecurity

A privilege to have hosted Deputy Prime Minister @DavidLammy for his first visit to Sri Lanka. From advancing the Global Charter on Children’s Care Reform to discussions on reconciliation and engaging National leaders, the visit signalled Sri Lanka’s importance to the UK. 🇬🇧 🇱🇰

Pleased to have joined Deputy Prime Minister @DavidLammy for his meeting with Opposition Leader @sajithpremadasa - a constructive discussion on Sri Lanka’s priorities and the UK’s commitment to working with partners across the political spectrum.

Delighted to welcome Deputy Prime Minister @DavidLammy to Sri Lanka on his first visit. Looking forward to important discussions later today. 🇬🇧 🇱🇰

Great to wrap up the visit Down South with a stop at @lkBritish partner English Language Centre in Matara. Good to meet students and staff and see first hand how skills are shaping future opportunities.

Productive discussion with NPP representatives from Hambantota District. Grateful for the presence of Deputy Minister for Local Government & Provincial Councils Hon Ruwan Senarath, NPP District Leader Hon Nihal Galappaththi, MP & Hon Dr Saliya Sandaruwan Marasinghe, MP.

A good start to the visit to the South with Kanchana Wijesekara in Matara. An open exchange on national politics, energy policy, and regional perspectives from the Southern Province.