About Us

Diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Iran were established in 1962. The first Sri Lankan Ambassador to Iran was concurrently accredited from Pakistan. The first resident Sri Lankan Mission in Tehran was set up in July 1990, while the resident Mission of Iran in Colombo was established in 1975. The Sri Lanka Embassy in Tehran is concurrently accredited to Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.

Iran-Sri Lanka Relations: A Glimpse into the Current Scenario

Iran and Sri Lanka have maintained cordial and mutually beneficial relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1962 Over the years, their cooperation has spanned various sectors, including trade, investment, energy, culture, and tourism. 

Economic Cooperation: A Cornerstone of Bilateral Ties

Economic cooperation forms the bedrock of Iran-Sri Lanka relations. Iran has been a significant trading partner for Sri Lanka, with tea, coconut products, and spices constituting the island nation's major exports to Iran. 

In recent years, the two countries have sought to expand their economic engagement beyond traditional trade. Iran has invested in infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka, including the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project, a hydroelectric power plant that has contributed to Sri Lanka's energy production capacity. Additionally, Iran has collaborated with Sri Lanka in the fields of agriculture, healthcare, and education.

Iran and Sri Lanka have signed several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in recent years. These agreements cover areas such as Cultural, Tourism, Education and Technical cooperation.

Cultural and Tourism Exchanges: Fostering People-to-People Connections

Iran and Sri Lanka also share a rich cultural heritage. The two countries have a long history of cultural exchanges.

In recent years, tourism has emerged as a significant area of cooperation between Iran and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has attracted a growing number of Iranian tourists, drawn by its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and hospitable people.

To promote tourism and cultural exchanges, Sri Lankan Embassy in Tehran holds several tourism promotion events with the aim to facilitate travel, enhance cultural understanding, and strengthen people-to-people connections.

Navigating Challenges and Prospects for the Future

Iran and Sri Lanka have faced challenges, including the impact of international sanctions on Iran. Additionally, geopolitical tensions in the region have occasionally affected their bilateral ties.

Both countries remain committed to overcoming these challenges and further deepening their cooperation. They recognize the mutual benefits of their partnership and view it as a strategic asset for their respective development aspirations.

Looking ahead, Iran and Sri Lanka have identified several areas for future cooperation, including renewable energy, information technology, and innovation. The two countries are also exploring potential partnerships in the fields of education, healthcare, and tourism.

Iran and Sri Lanka's relationship stands as a testament to the power of diplomacy and mutual respect. Despite facing challenges, the two countries have consistently demonstrated their commitment to strengthening their partnership. Their cooperation serves as a positive example of how nations can overcome differences and work together for mutual benefit.

Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project: A Symbol of Sri Lanka's Infrastructure Progress

Sri Lanka has made significant strides in infrastructure development over the past decade, and the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project stands as a prime example of this progress. This ambitious project, funded by Iran, aims to harness the potential of Uma Oya to generate hydropower, irrigate vast swathes of agricultural land, and provide drinking water to nearby communities.

President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Ebrahim Raisi jointly declared open the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project on 24 April 2024.

The Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project, funded by Sri Lanka and Iran, is designed to generate and add 120 Megawatt electricity to Sri Lanka’s national grid and provide irrigation to approximately 25,000 acres of paddy lands in the south eastern part of Sri Lanka. 

Iran's contribution to the Uma Oya project highlights the growing economic cooperation between Iran and Sri Lanka. In recent years, the two countries have signed several agreements to collaborate in various sectors, including trade, investment, and energy.

Recent Visits.

• Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, M.U.M. Ali Sabry undertook an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran, from 04th to 07th August 2023, on an invitation extended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. 

• Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Hossein Amir Abdollahian, undertook an official visit to Sri Lanka from 19 - 21 February 2024 on the invitation extended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry. 

• President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Ebrahim Raisi made an official visit to Sri Lanka at the invitation of President Ranil Wickremesinghe and jointly declared open the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project on 24 April 2024.

• Minister of Foreign Affairs M.U.M. Ali Sabry led a high level delegation to Tehran to participate at the state funeral held in Tehran on 22 May 2024, of late President Dr. Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Dr. Hossein Amirabdollahian and other senior Iranian officials due to a tragic helicopter crash.

• The State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tharaka Balasuriya led Sri Lanka delegation participated at the 19th Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Member States of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) held on 24 June 2024 in Tehran, Iran.

• Hon. Speaker of the Parliament, Mr.Mahinda Yapa Abeywardane led Sri Lanka delegation participated at the Inauguration ceremony of the newly elected President of Iran (H.E. Dr.Masoud Pezeshkian) held on 29-31 July 2024 in Tehran, Iran.