Bridging Borders: Strengthening trade and design across South Asia by Round Table Sri Lanka

Round Table Sri Lanka President Raveen Wickramasinghe 

Round Table Sri Lanka presents ‘Bridging Borders: Fostering Regional Cooperation and Global Impact,’ a landmark fireside chat set to take place on 23 May at Monarch Imperial, Sri Jayawardenepura, Kotte. 

This event will bring together 500-600 influential leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and experts from Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal to strengthen trade, investment, and regional cooperation. As part of the Asia Pacific Area (ASPA) Round Table Regional Meeting, Bridging Borders will serve as a dynamic platform for cross-border partnerships and business expansion. With globalisation accelerating and trade barriers diminishing, this event presents a pivotal opportunity to cultivate new economic and diplomatic ties.

Moderated by renowned business leader Peter de Almeida, the fireside chat will feature distinguished panellists including National Chamber of Commerce Sri Lanka Chairman Aruna Warnakulasooriya, Indian Chamber of Commerce Tamil Nadu Immediate Past President Shivkumar Eashwaran, and Nepal Chamber of Commerce Chairman Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal. These leaders will explore practical strategies to enhance trade connectivity, address bureaucratic challenges, and unlock investment avenues between Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal. Entrepreneurs and investors will gain valuable insights into market entry strategies, cross-border trade agreements, and funding opportunities. Businesses looking to expand into India and Nepal will have direct access to decision-makers who can facilitate smoother trade and investment processes. In addition to economic collaboration, Bridging Borders will highlight Sri Lanka’s growing influence in global design. With sustainability and innovation shaping the future of architecture and interior design, Sri Lanka is emerging as a regional leader in creative industries. 

A special session will feature industry pioneers such as Spa Ceylon Co-Founder Shalin Balasuriya, DWA Chairman Deepal Wickramasinghe, and Channa Daswatte of MICD Associates. They will share insights on how Sri Lanka is reshaping global design trends, with a focus on sustainable practices, cultural integration, and innovative solutions that position the country as a competitive force in the international market.

Round Table Sri Lanka President Raveen Wickramasinghe emphasised the event’s significance, stating: “This event marks a pivotal moment for South Asia. For the first time, key leaders from Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal are coming together to discuss both trade and investment opportunities as well as Sri Lanka’s growing influence in global design and innovation. Bridging Borders will foster stronger economic ties, encourage cultural exchange, and reinforce Sri Lanka’s position as a key player in both regional and global industries.”

ASPA Chairman Rahul Agrawal added that this event represents a unique opportunity for leaders to explore new synergies that will drive progress across South Asia and that Bridging Borders will play a crucial role in building stronger, more impactful collaborations with global reach. 

The event will be inaugurated by Round Table International President Danielle Cusie, who will highlight the global significance of this initiative in shaping the future of trade and innovation in South Asia.

Beyond traditional industries, Bridging Borders will also focus on Sri Lanka’s role in digital transformation and fintech. As India and Nepal rapidly adopt digital solutions, Sri Lankan start-ups and tech firms have exciting opportunities to collaborate on regional fintech solutions, e-commerce, and digital infrastructure development.

A dedicated networking session will allow participants to engage with industry leaders, diplomats, and business professionals from across South Asia. This provides a unique platform for entrepreneurs to form strategic alliances, explore business expansion opportunities, and exchange ideas that shape the future of regional trade and innovation.

With the support of Round Table Sri Lanka, Bridging Borders is set to become a cornerstone of South Asian economic and cultural diplomacy. By fostering collaboration in trade, design, and digital innovation, this initiative will create lasting partnerships that drive progress and prosperity across the region. 

As a milestone event for economic and cultural growth, Bridging Borders will empower businesses in Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal to expand their horizons, explore new opportunities, and strengthen regional cooperation for a more interconnected and prosperous South Asia.