(Colombo, February 06, 2026) –
In a significant move to strengthen bilateral intellectual exchange, the Pathfinder Foundation (PF) of Sri Lanka and the New Delhi-based Chintan Research Foundation (CRF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today in Colombo.
The signing ceremony was graced by the Acting High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, and the Founder of the Pathfinder Foundation, Mr. Milinda Moragoda. The MoU was officially signed by Mr. Bernard Goonetilleke, Chairman of the Pathfinder Foundation, and Mr. Shishir Priyadarshi, President of CRF.
Key Areas of Collaboration The partnership aims to broaden collaboration between the two independent think tanks, focusing on critical sectors including:
- Strategic Minerals & Renewable Energy
- New Technologies & Connectivity
- Tourism, Trade, and Investment
- Geopolitical developments affecting the region
This collaboration marks a pivotal step for the Pathfinder Foundation in expanding its network with leading Indian think tanks. The initiative is expected to support ongoing efforts to bolster bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka while enhancing broader regional cooperation.
Distinguished Attendees The event was attended by prominent figures and policy experts, including Dr. Cchavi Vasisht (Associate Fellow, CRF), Mr. K. Balasundaram (CEO, MMBL), Dr. R. H. S. Samaratunga (Former Secretary to the Ministry of Finance), and Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy (Former Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka).
Senior representatives from the Pathfinder Foundation, including Dr. Dayaratna Silva (Executive Director), Amb. (Retd.) A. A. Jawad (Director, Centre for India-Sri Lanka Initiatives), and Maj. Gen. (Retd.) S. Sallay (Senior Fellow), were also present at the occasion.