The Staff of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai and Northern Emirates formally commenced work for the new year on 01 January 2025 in a simple ceremony held at the Post premises. The event was in line with the national initiative “Clean Sri Lanka”, launched by the Government of Sri Lanka on the same day at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo.
The ceremony commenced with the hoisting of the national flag and the singing of the National Anthem by the staff of the Consulate General. This was followed by the reciting of the “Clean Sri Lanka” Oath pledging to dedicate themselves with unity and integrity to creating a thriving nation and a better life for all Sri Lankans.
Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai, Alexi Gunasekera extended new year greetings to the staff and the Sri Lankan community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and conveyed wishes on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka as well. Referring to the inaugural address by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the ceremonial launch of the “Clean Sri Lanka” national programme, the Consul General underscored the role of the Consulate General as a government entity in efficiently and effectively serving the large Sri Lankan expatriate community residing in Dubai and Northern Emirates. He highlighted the importance of supporting the government’s efforts to redirect public services toward a citizen-centric approach and to advance digitalization initiatives. The Consul General also emphasized the need to fulfill duties with commitment, accountability, and transparency, ensuring the well-being and interests of the Sri Lankan community at large.
Additionally, he outlined strategic actions to strengthen economic ties between Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These include increasing and diversifying Sri Lankan exports to the UAE, promoting tourism and Foreign Direct Investment from UAE to Sri Lanka for potential sectors, exploring business opportunities, and facilitating more skilled job placements for Sri Lankans in the UAE.
The Consul General also appreciated the staff of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka for their dedication and contributions over the past year, for supporting Sri Lankan expatriates to overcome challenges, and especially for the service provided during the UAE Amnesty 2024 program. Further, he reaffirmed the shared commitment to achieving the Consulate General's objectives in the year ahead.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka
Dubai
03 January 2025
