Addressing the “5th International Business Forum of the Skolkovo Women’s Forum”, Ambassador Shobini Gunasekera highlighted the growing role of women as catalysts for innovation and international business cooperation. Moreover, she emphasized the importance of strengthening international cooperation to promote inclusive and sustainable economic development and noted that women’s participation in business has expanded well beyond traditional sectors, with women increasingly taking leadership roles in technology, creative industries, tourism, logistics, fashion and healthcare.
She encouraged women-led SME enterprises to look beyond local markets and actively explore international business opportunities. Further, she stressed the need for women entrepreneurs to develop new partnerships, diversify markets and seek innovative ways to overcome the challenges posed by prevailing economic barriers and disruptions to international trade.
The participants were invited to Sri Lanka Expo 2027, to be held in Colombo from 14–17 January 2027 and highlighted the Expo as an opportunity for businesses to explore new markets, sourcing opportunities, commercial partnerships and investment prospects in Sri Lanka.
The business programme focused on key issues including adapting businesses to global change, artificial intelligence, technological entrepreneurship and international cooperation, providing opportunities for participants to exchange experiences and establish new business connections.
The Forum brought together 1,778 women leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, scientists and senior business executives, with participants representing the business, science, technology and creative sectors. The international track included representatives and business communities from India, China, Sri Lanka, Brazil and South Africa.
