Sri Lanka took a major leap forward in its digital transformation journey as the sixth edition of SLASSCOM’s AI Asia Summit 2025 concluded in Colombo, signalling the country’s growing role as a regional hub for applied AI and innovation. This year’s theme, ‘AI in Action’, made it clear that the country is moving beyond discussion to deployment-shaping use cases, capability, and policy around real-world impact.Welcoming over 400 participants, 31 global and regional speakers, and 18 high-impact sessions, the Summit delivered deep insights into how AI is transforming economies, industries, and national competitiveness across Asia.
A breakthrough for Sri Lanka’s deep-tech ecosystem: Xavier robotics launch
One of the most defining moments was the unveiling of Xavier, Sri Lanka’s first fully conceived and engineered AI-driven robotics platform, built by Xavier AI. The platform demonstrates the growing maturity of the country’s AI talent and proves that Sri Lanka can innovate at global deep-tech standards.
Xavier’s launch marked Sri Lanka’s transition from being an adopter to a creator of frontier technologies in robotics, automation, and intelligent systems-reinforcing the country’s positioning as an AI innovation hub.
Policy leadership converges with technology vision
A highlight of the Summit was the presence of senior policymakers and technologists shaping digital
transformation across the region.
Key figures included:
India’s Electronics and IT Ministry Secretary Shri S. Krishnan
Digital Economy Ministry Deputy Minister Eng. Eranga Weeraratne
Chief Adviser to the President on Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya
Wadhwani Centre for Government Digital Transformation CEO Prakash Kumar
Prakash Kumar’s opening keynote set the strategic tone for the Summit, highlighting AI’s pivotal role in reshaping governance, accelerating service delivery, and enabling cross-border innovation. A post-event roundtable on Healthcare AI, chaired by Google’s Dr. Rukshan Batuwita, convened clinicians,
regulators, and industry leaders to map early pathways for responsible AI deployment in Sri Lanka’s healthcare system. SLASSCOM Chairperson Shehani Seneviratne said: ‘AI Asia Summit 2025 demonstrated not just the potential of AI, but the determination of Sri Lanka’s tech ecosystem to lead, innovate, and shape the future. The energy and expertise showcased this year reaffirm that we are firmly on the path to becoming a regional powerhouse and AI innovation hub.’
With growing momentum, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a future-ready, innovation-driven economy-one where AI becomes a driver of growth, competitiveness, and national transformation.
Pan Asia Bank joins Deepal to drive green leasing in Sri LankaPan Asia Banking Corporation PLC has entered into a strategic partnership with Prime EV Automobiles, the authorised representative of the Deepal electric vehicle brand in Sri Lanka.
This collaboration was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting eco-friendly leasing solutions, such as Pan Asia Bank’s EV Plus, and accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles across the country. This initiative underscores Pan Asia Bank’s dedication to driving Sri Lanka’s green transition by making sustainable mobility more accessible and affordable.
The partnership enables customers of Prime EV Automobiles to enjoy exclusive leasing facilities from Pan Asia Bank when purchasing electric vehicles, making EV ownership more accessible, affordable, and convenient. Through this collaboration, Pan Asia Bank aims to further strengthen its position as a pioneer in green leasing, supporting the country’s transition toward cleaner energy and sustainable transport solutions.
Pan Asia Bank Director/CEO Naleen Edirisinghe said: ‘As a bank deeply committed to sustainability, we are proud to join hands with Prime EV Automobiles to support Sri Lankans to make the shift towards electric mobility. Our specialised leasing solutions are designed to make EV ownership easier while helping customers contribute to a greener tomorrow.’
With this partnership, customers can look forward to customised leasing packages for Prime EV’s range of electric vehicles, supported by streamlined financing processes and value-added services. The collaboration also reinforces Pan Asia Bank’s broader vision of becoming the country’s most eco-conscious financial partner through innovative green lending and leasing programs.