Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Austria M.R.K. Lenagala extended a compelling invitation to Austrian tech founders, startup leaders, and innovation stakeholders to explore collaboration opportunities within Sri Lanka’s rapidly growing technology and entrepreneurship landscape.
Speaking at a recent networking event, titled “Beyond Beaches and Tea-Tech Sri Lanka,” the Ambassador emphasised Sri Lanka’s emergence as a South Asian innovation hub. He highlighted the nation’s expanding startup ecosystem, increasing potential for cross-border partnerships, and the strategic advantages it offers for foreign investors in the technology sector.
The event, held in Vienna, was organised by Resource Connect Services (RCS), a technology company registered in Austria and founded by Sri Lankan entrepreneur Ranil Samarawickrema. Commending the initiative, Ambassador Lenagala described it as a model of expatriate-led economic diplomacy—boosting digital exports while strengthening Sri Lanka’s global brand.
Detailing Sri Lanka’s capabilities in Information Technology (IT) and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), the Ambassador underlined the government’s commitment to driving the sector’s growth. He identified key areas for bilateral cooperation, including knowledge exchange, talent development, and joint ventures in tech innovation and outsourcing.
In a bid to deepen engagement, he extended an invitation to Austrian stakeholders to attend “Disrupt Asia 2025,” Sri Lanka’s premier ICT conference, scheduled for September 2025 in Colombo.
Addressing the gathering, RCS CEO Ranil Samarawickrema said the event aimed to move beyond traditional outsourcing narratives. “It’s about helping Europe discover the full spectrum of Sri Lankan excellence and building a broader, more modern brand for Sri Lanka,” he remarked.
The event also addressed pressing challenges within Europe’s tech ecosystem—such as developer shortages, talent migration, and sustainability—while positioning Sri Lanka as a scalable, ethical, and future-ready partner for long-term collaboration.
By Sujeeva Nivunhella reporting from Vienna
