Island Nations & the Future of Sustainable Growth | Innovation Island Summit

Opening Plenary | Sri Lankan Horizons: The Ocean Meets the Sky Sri Lanka represents a wealth of opportunity for growth and sustainable development. With an exclusive economic zone nearly eight times its land area, and a thriving blue economy, the island nation has immense potential for fisheries, tourism, and marine biodiversity - sectors that contribute significantly to its GDP. The stabilisation of Sri Lanka's economy in 2024, marked by consistent growth and rising exports, reflects resilience and opens doors for transformative investments. The paradox and promise of an island that faces extreme climate vulnerabilities and has a history of economic constraints, yet which has emerged as a champion of inclusive growth, environmental stewardship and the creative application of ICTs, offers valuable lessons for island states worldwide. How might Sri Lanka leverage its growing economic stability and record trade performance in 2024 for long-term resilience and growth? How can Sri Lanka and other island states balance the utilisation of their blue economy resources with the need to address coastal degradation and climate vulnerabilities? How can technology, digital innovation, and responsible private sector participation drive sustainable development in island states? What measures can island states take to mitigate potentially high debt burdens? Speakers Hans Wijesuriya, Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy, Sri Lanka Deshal de Mel, Economic Advisor, Ministry of Finance, Sri Lanka Moderator Sunaina Kumar, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India #sustainability #srilanka #island #technology Subscribe, follow, and engage with us: ORF YouTube:    / orfdelhi   ORF Facebook:   / orfonline   ORF Twitter:   / orfonline   ORF Instagram:   / orfonline   Raisina Dialogue Twitter:   / raisinadialogue   Raisina Dialogue Instagram:   / raisinaofficial   Raisina Dialogue Facebook:   / raisinadialogue