Sri Lanka strengthens ties with ICAO at Dubai Air Show

Sri Lanka reinforced its aviation cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) at the Dubai Air Show 2025 (DAS25), highlighting the country’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and global air transport efficiency.

Capt. Daminda Rambukwella, Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL), participated in the Dubai Air Show 2025 (DAS25) and held productive discussions with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) delegation.

The engagement built on the outcomes of the high-level meeting held during the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, where ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar, Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodituwakku, and the DGCA discussed strengthening cooperation.

Talks at DAS25 focused on deepening collaboration in line with ICAO’s global strategic priorities of aviation safety and security, environmental sustainability, and efficient, accessible air transport.

Sri Lanka and ICAO explored opportunities to position the country as a South Asian aviation training hub, supported by enhanced technical cooperation and capacity-building programmes.

Plans include deploying international experts to deliver specialised training, workshops, and seminars to elevate local aviation standards.

The ICAO team also expressed support for aviation development initiatives in Sri Lanka, including improvements in air navigation services, airport infrastructure, and training facilities through the organization’s Capacity Development and Implementation Bureau.

The ICAO delegation included Christian Khouzam, Project Manager of the Business Development Unit; Mekki Lahlou, Resource Mobilisation Officer of the CDI; and Sara Kocnim, Data Sales Associate of the Business Development Unit.

The Dubai Air Show, now in its 21st edition, is the world’s largest aviation exhibition, attracting more than 148,000 visitors and 1,500 companies from over 150 countries, serving as a global platform for collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships in the aviation industry.