Nepal–Sri Lanka ICT Alliance 2025: A Strategic Leap Toward South Asia’s Digital Future
Kathmandu – Nepal and Sri Lanka have formally embarked on a landmark bilateral partnership aimed at transforming the digital landscape of South Asia. Under the banner of the Nepal–Sri Lanka ICT Alliance 2025, both countries are taking bold steps to deepen cooperation in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, foster innovation, and drive economic growth across the region.
The initiative was conceptualized by Mr. Chiranjibi Adhikari, Senior Vice President of the CAN Federation, Nepal’s leading ICT industry association. The formal proposal was handed over to Mrs. Chameera Munasinghe, Charge d’Affaires at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Kathmandu, signaling a major stride in regional ICT diplomacy. Academic Expert and CAN Central Executive Member Omkar Basnet was also present during the handover.
Key Highlights of the Nepal–Sri Lanka ICT Alliance
- Establishment of a Bilateral ICT Business Council:
A dedicated Nepal–Sri Lanka ICT Business Council will be formed in collaboration with the CAN Federation, Sri Lanka Association for Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM), and the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka. This council will serve as a formal platform for structured dialogue, joint ventures, and business matchmaking in key sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software services.
- Joint Ventures in Startups and Innovation:
The alliance encourages co-investment in startups and innovation through partnerships with Sri Lankan venture capitalists, accelerators, and corporations. Nepali startups in fields like AI, health tech, agritech, and fintech will gain access to new resources, funding, and regional markets.
- Mutual Recognition of IT Certifications:
To promote digital workforce mobility, the two nations will recognize each other’s IT certifications and technical training credentials. This move will open up cross-border job opportunities for IT professionals and standardize digital skills across the region.
- Outsourcing and Talent Exchange:
The partnership will support increased outsourcing of services and structured talent exchange programs. Both countries will leverage their respective expertise in cloud computing, software development, BPO services, and cybersecurity to enhance quality and cost-efficiency.
- Strengthening Cybersecurity Cooperation:
Nepal’s npCert and Sri Lanka CERT will collaborate on intelligence sharing, incident response, and regional cybersecurity training. Joint capacity-building initiatives will be launched to address growing digital threats.
- Co-Hosting ICT Expos and Trade Missions:
Joint participation in tech expos and trade events will be a key element of the partnership. Events like Nepal’s CAN InfoTech and Startup Expo and Sri Lanka’s Trade Expo and Policy Dialogue will facilitate business networking, investor engagement, and market expansion.
- Launching a Bilateral ICT Investment Fund:
Nepal and Sri Lanka are exploring the creation of a joint ICT Innovation Fund. This fund will finance collaborative research, product development, and technology commercialization, acting as a driver for regional innovation.
- Academic and Research Collaboration:
Leading ICT universities and research institutions in both countries will sign Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for joint research, faculty and student exchanges, and collaborative projects in blockchain, AI, and data analytics.
- Policy Harmonization for Digital Trade:
Efforts will be made to align digital policies, particularly in areas like data protection, e-commerce, digital identity, and cross-border digital services. Harmonized regulatory frameworks will support seamless digital trade and governance.
