The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism formally commenced official duties for the year 2026 with a solemn and dignified programme held today at the Ministry premises.
The event began with the hoisting of the National Flag by the Hon. Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Hon. Arun Hemachandra, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. A two‑minute silence was observed in honour of the war heroes and all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the motherland.
All staff present collectively reaffirmed their commitment to public service by reciting the Public Servants’ Oath in Sinhala and Tamil, underscoring their dedication to integrity, accountability, and service to the nation.
The programme featured an address by Ms. Aruni Ranaraja, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, who highlighted the importance of professionalism, inclusivity, and institutional reform in the Ministry’s operations. She also reflected on the Ministry’s capacity‑building efforts over the past year aimed at enhancing service delivery.
This was followed by keynote addresses from the Hon. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Hon. (Prof.) Ruwan Ranasinghe, and Hon. Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Hon. Arun Hemachandra, who outlined the Ministry’s strategic vision for 2026. Their remarks focused on strengthening foreign relations, expanding employment opportunities, advancing tourism development, and coordinating ongoing recovery efforts following the impacts of Cyclone Ditwah.
The ceremony reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing national interests and delivering effective public service in the year ahead.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism
Colombo
01 January 2026
