Global connections have been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s growth story throughout its history; and now with a massive diaspora community around the world, there is much potential to reap.

“Global connections make the magic happen,” the Deputy Director – Workforce Strategy, Northern Territory Go­vernment of Australia, Mariam Riza asserted, during a recent LMDtv interview. She added: “Without our connections, we aren’t empowered and engaged.”

She also noted that “there are different perspectives of what global connections are; but from a Sri Lankan perspective, they are indispensable for the nation’s progress especially given the current economic conditions and opportunities.”

Riza observed: “Sri Lanka has always been a pearl in the global market and as an island nation, it has domestic resources and beautiful landscapes. That is why it’s so fundamentally important to share it.”

“Sri Lanka also relies heavily on international trade, foreign investments and remittances to drive economic growth. Further, global connections help the country with critical financial aid, technological transfers and expertise to modernise industries,” she added.

Sri Lankans are extremely agile and flexible when it comes to blending with different cultures and communities, she said, adding: “They are like sponges and can blend into any ecosystem.”

Riza elaborated: “There are an estimated three million Sri Lankans living abroad; and this community plays a significant role in the countries they live in. We end up being thinkers, movers and shakers in those countries.”

“Once Sri Lankans are embedded in different countries and communities, they perform really well and can share their knowledge with those living in the island. And similarly, the diaspora can learn a lot from them too,” she elaborated.

Global connections also enable the transfer of wealth and investments, she pointed out: “Since Sri Lanka relies heavily on foreign remittances, this money is extremely important for the development of the country. There are plenty of remittances and investments that go into developing the country but fundamentally, the largest investment is in the people.”

Riza also talked about how Sri Lankans are adding value to the country, noting that “in Australia, we have about 27 million people out of which around 150,000 are Sri Lankans. It feels like a small number but is quite sizable; and we’re visible and well-known for our ability to be friendly contributors.”

She continued: “Sri Lankans have done really well in Australia, predominantly because of our ability to be agile and immerse ourselves in different cultures – and bring our intelligence, skills sets and friendliness to businesses and communities.”

Riza also emphasised the need to look at all skills – such as those of doctors, lawyers and accountants, as well as those carpenters, woodworkers, technicians, electricians, nurses and cooks to name a few – since they can bridge many gaps in Australia.

In addition to talent, she believes that Sri Lanka must look at diversifying its exports. She explained: “It’s about repackaging and positioning our value internationally. We’re doing so with tourism but that isn’t our only avenue. When looking at spices or any commoditised product, instead of selling it in bulk, we must consider repackaging it into brands and higher value added products.”

“My biggest plea to the diaspora is to keep the connections with home not only for yourself and your generation but also your children,” she urged.

She also wants Sri Lankans to maintain links with the diaspora. “Make it easy for them to keep coming back and engaging with Sri Lanka,” she said, and added that “the diaspora is Sri Lanka’s greatest advocate overseas.”

Riza encouraged more investment opportunities to be presented to the diaspora and summed up: “Give the diaspora the confidence that their capital will be preserved – and their ROI will come through.”