National AI Expo & Conference 2025 ceremoniously opens to drive Sri Lanka’s AI future

Sri Lanka marked a new era with the ceremonial opening of the inaugural National AI Expo & Conference. The two-day event, pioneered by the Ministry of Digital Economy and SLT-MOBITEL, commenced at Monarch Imperial on 29 September 2025.

Positioned as the nation’s most ambitious AI initiative, the National AI Expo and Conference aims to establish Sri Lanka as a regional hub by accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence across the economy. The high-powered opening brought together local and global leaders, innovators, and policymakers committed to shaping the country’s AI future.

Hon. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, as Chief Guest, addressed the gathering, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing AI innovation and positioning Sri Lanka at the forefront of technology and digital transformation.

Hon. Eng. Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, delivered a keynote on the national AI strategy, emphasizing AI’s transformative role in advancing Sri Lanka’s digital economy. The ceremony began with a welcome address by Dr. Mothilal De Silva, Chairman of SLT Group, who set the ambitions and expectations for this landmark event.

The ceremonial opening set the tone for the two-day expo and conference, highlighting Sri Lanka’s determination to embrace artificial intelligence as a national priority. With strong leadership from the government and the active engagement of industry, it marked a defining milestone in the nation’s journey to becoming a future-ready AI hub.