Revival of Spice Route Initiative in Kerala

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in New Delhi participated in a three-day event on the theme “Revival of the Spice Route Initiative” organised by the State Government of Kerala in association with the Netherlands Embassy in New Delhi from 15–18 June in Kochi. This was a continuation of a program initiated in 2016 under the cooperation agreement between the Government of Kerala and the UNESCO. 

The three-day program in Kochi mainly focused on promoting intercultural dialogue through the revival of the ancient Spice Route, and to identify how each country can be a part of this revival of the ancient Spice Route and collaborate with the State Government of Kerala. 

The event was attended by the Spice Route countries, including Sri Lanka, and was inaugurated by the Minister for Tourism of the State Government of Kerala Shri Kadakampally Surendran. 

Speaking at the event, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to India Chitranganee Wagiswara expounded on the history of the spice industry of Sri Lanka and how it attracted many Western nations due to the variety of rich spices in the island. 

She highlighted the importance of creating awareness of the spice route as it connects thirty one countries around the world.  

High Commissioner Wagiswara pointed out that Sri Lanka could explore further collaboration with Kerala to attract more tourists and bring all Spice Route countries together, and benefit by experiencing the rich cultures and authentic cuisines based on spices. Furthermore, she said that people could explore many tourist attractions and learn about each nation which would bring greater understanding and friendship amongst their peoples. 

A video on Sri Lanka Tourism was presented during the event. 

The Minister for Finance of the State Government of Kerala Dr. Thomas Isaac, the Secretary of Tourism, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, experts on history and heritage, and media personnel were among the invitees to the event.