Sri Lanka deputy minister meets Turkish labour counterpart in Ankara

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra met Prof. Dr. Lütfihak Alpkan, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Security of the Republic of Türkiye, in Ankara on 27 October 2026 as part of his official visit to Türkiye.

Talks focused on expanding employment opportunities for Sri Lankan nationals in Türkiye, advancing skills development, promoting ethical and transparent recruitment practices, and safeguarding the rights, safety and welfare of Sri Lankan workers.

The two sides exchanged views on improving working conditions, protecting migrant workers’ rights and strengthening coordination to address issues faced by Sri Lankan nationals employed in Türkiye.

Deputy Minister Hemachandra thanked Prof. Dr. Alpkan for the warm reception and constructive engagement and expressed his commitment to further strengthening ties between the two countries in areas of mutual interest.

The meeting reaffirmed the importance of creating safe and meaningful employment opportunities while ensuring that the dignity, rights and well-being of migrant workers remain a priority.

Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Niluka Kadurugamuwa, and Nilusha Dilmini, Minister at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara, also participated.