Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong met with President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Indian Ocean Conference to discuss strengthening bilateral relations between Australia and Sri Lanka. At the conference, Minister Wong expressed his gratitude for Sri Lanka's support and warmly welcomed President Wickremesinghe to Australia.

Speaking at the event, Minister Wong emphasized the renewed commitment of the Australian Government to the Indian Ocean region and its commitment to foster closer relations with the countries concerned. He also highlighted Australia's growing engagement in the region, which he saw as a positive development amid changing power dynamics.

President Wickremesinghe, in response, shared his views on the development dynamics of the Indian Ocean and particularly emphasized the importance of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). He hailed Australia for its increased engagement in the region and acknowledged the involvement of Australian companies in Sri Lanka's growing investment in renewable energy.

The two leaders also reflected on their countries' historical relations dating back to the Colombo Plan. They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations and seek new opportunities for cooperation.

President Wickremesinghe was accompanied to Sri Lanka by key officials including Senior National Security Adviser to the President and Chief of Staff to the President, Sagala Ratnayaka; Australian High Commissioner Chitranganee Wagiswara, Private Secretary to the President Sandra Perera and Directors of International Relations to the President Dinouk Colombage and Rishan de Silva.