Pixs: Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris hosts a year end Christmas reception

Foreign Minister G. L. Peiris hosted a Christmas reception on Sunday at the Hilton Colombo, attended by Heads of Missions of the Diplomatic Corps based in Colombo,  Cabinet Ministers, MPs, senior government officials and representatives of the business sector.  Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Madam Shiranthi Rajapaksa graced the occasion as Chief Guests.

Minister Peris in his welcome address stated that Christmas was a time to celebrate our relationships, friendships and our accomplishments. Therefore this was as good a time as any to look back on the year that has gone by to reflect on our achievements and to assess  what we have done right and most importantly what we could have done better. The Foreign Minister further added, ' the year that has come to an end has been a time of formidable challenge to Sri Lanka. Covid 19 has almost disrupted every aspect of national life in our country but there has been universal recognition of the success that Sri Lanka has achieved in containing and combating the epidemic.'

The State Minister of Regional Cooperation Tharaka Balasuriya also addressed the guests, stating  that  what was  most important now, along with climate change,  is economic diplomacy. State Minister Balasuriya organised Sri Lankan designers and artists to showcase their arts and handicrafts  at the reception, adding  that Sri Lanka's creative industry needs to be brought to the forefront.  The exhibitors at the event were; Eric Suriyasena Batiks, Buddhi Batiks, Isle of Rataa and Urban Island and the art exhibition was curated by Azara Jaleel.

This event was supported by the Tea Board, National Crafts Council, Spices and Allied Products Marketing Board, State Ministry of Batik, Palmyrah Development Board, Isle of Rataa, Buddhi Batiks and 1948 shop. (Pix by- Foreign Ministry)