Harvard University to conduct online economic diplomacy course for Foreign Ministry and Commerce Dep

Harvard University Center for International Development (HCID) Senior Lecturer Prof. Matt Andrews and Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Harsha de Silva exchange the agreement of the Dynamic Economic Diplomacy Online Course. Department of Commerce Director General Sonali Wijeratne is also present  - Pic by Ruwan Walpola

As part of its economic diplomacy role, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has undertaken a unique initiative to design and implement an online economic diplomacy course catering to Sri Lanka’s specific economic needs and challenges. 

This course is a result of the Foreign Ministry’s collaboration with the Department of Commerce and Harvard University, one of the world’s most prestigious universities. 

The ceremonial launch of the course was held yesterday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and presided over by Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Harsha de Silva. Also participating in the event were Department of Commerce Director General Sonali Wijeratne; Senior Lecturer, Harvard University Center for International Development (HCID) Prof. Matt Andrews; invited guests and officials selected to take part in the course. 

This is the first time that the HCID is offering this course, with Sri Lanka being the first country to engage with the center to design a course catering to its specific needs. 

Speaking at the event, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs said that Sri Lanka had fallen behind other countries in the region in terms of exports and attracting FDI and that it was vital that it reinvigorate its efforts to achieve the ambitious economic targets set by the Government. In this regard, the heads of missions and commercial officers at Sri Lanka missions abroad play a vital role as they are in a position to directly interact with foreign governments and private sector companies and to encourage them to utilise Sri Lanka’s opportunities and capabilities. The course aims to enable diplomatic officers in Sri Lankan Missions abroad to play a more proactive role in spearheading the Government’s policies, pursuing exports and foreign direct investment.

The course is spread over 18 weeks and comprises action-oriented practical lessons to ensure that the officers learn while engaging in their day-to-day work. The selected participants include approximately 35-40 Government officials, including heads of missions and commercial officers at 15-20 Sri Lankan missions abroad and in Colombo.

Department of Commerce Director General Wijeratne highlighted the challenges Sri Lanka is facing in diversifying its export basket. Prof. Matt Andrews, while addressing the gathering, cited the examples of countries which were able to effectively utilise their foreign missions to enhance trade and investment opportunities. He added that the course was demanding and would impart the skills, knowledge and abilities that will enable officers to effectively market Sri Lanka’s potential.