Foreign Minister hosts Ambassadors at Independence Day Reception

 Minister addressing the gathering at the High Tea 

On the occasion of the 72nd anniversary of independence of Sri Lanka, Minister of Foreign Relations Dinesh Gunawardena hosted a High Tea for resident and non-resident envoys accredited to Sri Lanka on 4 February at the Ministry of Foreign Relations.

International Cooperation State Minister Susil Premajayantha with envoys

Foreign Minister and Foreign Secretary with envoys

While welcoming the envoys, Minister Gunawardena highlighted the cordial bilateral relations which Sri Lanka has enjoyed over the years with other nations.  State Minister of International Cooperation Susil Premajayantha also addressed the gathering, and appreciated all envoys for their contribution to the development of Sri Lanka. 

In order to promote trade, investment and tourism, which have been identified as key components of the development of Sri Lanka, several selected businesses representing apparel, spices, porcelains, tea, gem and jewellery sectors were invited to display their products at the High Tea.

The Ministry of Foreign Relations also organized a familiarization tour to Hambantota and Yala for the non-resident envoys who are based in New Delhi, to showcase opportunities for investments and tourism available in Southern Sri Lanka. During the tour, the envoys enjoyed traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, rich Sri Lankan culture and world-renowned hospitality.