Saudi Arabia remains one of Sri Lanka\u2019s closest and most supportive allies. Over the decades, the Kingdom has extended its unwavering assistance to Sri Lanka across various sectors, including economic development, infrastructure, and humanitarian aid.<\/p>\n
Saudi Arabia-Sri Lankan diplomatic relations have now spanned over 50 years. Throughout this half-century of partnership, Sri Lanka has experienced remarkable progress and development. In celebration of this enduring relationship, the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations was recently commemorated at the Colombo ICT Hotel, under the leadership of the Hon. Khalid bin Hamood Al Qahtani, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Sri Lanka.<\/p>\n
A key contributor to Sri Lanka\u2019s development journey has been the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), through which Saudi Arabia continues to invest in major national projects. Since its inception, the SFD has extended 15 concessional development loans to Sri Lanka, amounting to approximately US\u202f$425\u202fmillion. These funds have been directed toward the implementation of 13 significant projects, spanning important sectors such as water, energy, healthcare, road infrastructure, and education. These projects have played a pivotal role in strengthening Sri Lanka\u2019s infrastructure and public services:<\/p>\n
1. Colombo Water Supply and Sewerage Project (1981) \u2013 This project focused on enhancing urban water supply and sanitation systems to improve the quality of life in Colombo.
\n2. Electric Power Transmission Network Project (1981) \u2013 Aimed at upgrading Sri Lanka\u2019s national energy infrastructure to meet growing electricity demands.
\n3. Mahaweli Ganga Development \u2013 Left Bank Project (early 1980s) \u2013 Supported irrigation and agricultural productivity in one of Sri Lanka\u2019s most vital farming regions.
\n4. Health Facilities Upgrade in Colombo (2002 & 2008) \u2013 Included key advancements in health infrastructure, such as the Neuro-Trauma Unit at the National Hospital.
\n5. Batticaloa\u2013Trincomalee Road Development (2004) \u2013 Improved transport connectivity and accessibility within the Eastern Province.
\n6. Expansion of Health Facilities (2008) \u2013 Marked the second phase of development in Colombo\u2019s healthcare sector.
\n7. Epilepsy Hospital and Health Centre at Colombo National Hospital (constructed in 2008, additional loan in 2015) \u2013 A specialized 242-bed center catering to neurological disorders.
\n8. Kalu Ganga Development Project (Left Bank Expansion, approximately USD 45 million, 2010\/2017) \u2013 Enhanced irrigation systems through the construction of reservoirs and canal networks.
\n9. National Highway Development, including the Peradeniya\u2013Badulla\u2013Chenkaladi Road (~USD 60 million, initiated in 2015 and completed in 2021) \u2013 Strengthened road networks to facilitate regional and national connectivity.
\n10. Wayamba University Township Development Project (~USD 28 million, launched in 2017) \u2013 Focused on upgrading campus infrastructure, benefiting over 5,000 students annually.
\n11. Medical Faculty at Sabaragamuwa University, Ratnapura (~USD 50 million, signed in 2019) \u2013 Supported the construction of a new Faculty of Medicine to enhance medical education and training.
\n12. Kinniya Bridge Project, Trincomalee District (loan agreement circa 2017) \u2013 Enabled the construction of a critical bridge serving around 100,000 local residents.
\n13. Neuro-Trauma Unit at Colombo National Hospital \u2013 A dedicated center for trauma care, supported as part of broader healthcare sector initiatives.<\/p>\n
As part of the Wayamba University Township Development Project, a loan agreement was signed on October 24, 2017, for USD 28 million (approximately SAR 105 million). The project aims to expand and modernize the educational infrastructure of Wayamba University, enhancing its capacity to serve over 5,000 students annually. By improving the quality of higher education and strengthening the region\u2019s socio-economic capabilities, the project supports long-term community development. Key components include expanding teaching facilities, upgrading academic resources, and enhancing the university\u2019s position as a prominent educational hub in Kuliyapitiya and Makandura.<\/p>\n
Today marks the official opening ceremony of the newly constructed facilities at Wayamba University, an event graced by the distinguished presence of the Honourable Chairman of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), Professor Sultan bin Abdul Rahman Al-Marshad. He is accompanied by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Sri Lanka, Honourable Khalid Hamood Al Qahtani, and the Honourable Prime Minister of Sri Lanka.<\/p>\n
On this special occasion, Al Hikma Foundation extends a warm welcome to Professor Sultan bin Abdul Rahman Al-Marshad, the CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development, and the accompanying delegation visiting Sri Lanka in conjunction with the inauguration ceremony.<\/p>\n
The Chairman\u2019s visit and the official commissioning of this major development initiative represent a significant milestone and a valuable gift to the people of Sri Lanka. The Saudi Fund for Development continues to play a vital role in supporting Sri Lanka\u2019s economic stability, advancing sustainable development, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.<\/p>\n
These efforts reflect the deep and enduring ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. They also highlight Saudi Arabia\u2019s steadfast commitment to supporting the economic development of its brotherly nations.<\/p>\n
At this significant moment, the invaluable contributions of the Saudi Fund for Development will be remembered with great appreciation. These initiatives represent generous support extended to the people of Sri Lanka\u2014aimed at strengthening the national economy, enhancing university infrastructure, rehabilitating and expanding key highways, and addressing various essential needs of both the government and the public.<\/p>\n
Such acts of generosity and cooperation are not new or unexpected from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Since the time of the nation\u2019s founder, King Abdul Aziz, and continuing under the current leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, Saudi Arabia has consistently demonstrated its dedication to supporting global development and humanitarian service.<\/p>\n
It is important to highlight that the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka spans over five decades. Throughout this time, the Kingdom has continuously supported Sri Lanka in meeting its essential needs. In addition to development assistance, Saudi Arabia has extended numerous humanitarian and relief services to the Sri Lankan people\u2014a commitment that remains ongoing.<\/p>\n
The contribution of Hon. Khalid Hamood Al Qahtani, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Sri Lanka, in strengthening bilateral diplomatic relations has been truly commendable. He stands as an exemplary ambassador and a vital bridge between the two nations. Under his leadership, the ties between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka have grown into a strong and dynamic partnership.<\/p>\n
In short, the Ambassador has played a pivotal role in deepening and strengthening the bilateral relationship between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka. We extend our sincere gratitude and heartfelt prayers to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Excellency Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, for their continued support to Sri Lanka and their unwavering commitment to global humanitarian efforts. May Almighty Allah bless the Chairman of the Saudi Fund for Development and the Honorable Ambassador, whose visit to Sri Lanka has further fortified the enduring friendship between our two nations.<\/p>\n
M.H. Shaikhuddeen Madani, BA
\nDirector,
\nAl Hikma Welfare Association,
\nColombo.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Saudi Arabia remains one of Sri Lanka\u2019s closest and most supportive allies. Over the decades, the Kingdom has extended its unwavering assistance to Sri Lanka across various sectors, including economic development, infrastructure, and humanitarian aid. Saudi Arabia-Sri Lankan diplomatic relations have now spanned over 50 years. Throughout this half-century of partnership, Sri Lanka has experienced […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4367","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-world"],"yoast_head":"\n