The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore hosted an event to mark the 77th anniversary of the Independence of Sri Lanka and the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Singapore on 24 February 2025 at Shangri-La Singapore. Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development & Information and Ministry of Health of Singapore, Dr. Janil Puthucheary graced the occasion as the guest of honour, representing the Government of Singapore, along with the Members of Parliament, Lim Biow Chuan and Xie Yao Quan.
The event brought together the diplomatic corps, government officials, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and members of the Sri Lankan and Singaporean communities. It was also a platform to showcase Sri Lanka’s tourism potential, investment opportunities, and cultural heritage, while reinforcing the strong and enduring ties between the two countries.
In his remarks, Dr. Janil Puthucheary highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two countries and reflected on his personal connection to Sri Lanka, sharing that his maternal grandfather hailed from Sri Lanka. He emphasized the growing bilateral trade, investment, and education partnerships, including the 40% increase in trade in 2024. He also acknowledged the historical contributions of Sri Lankans to Singapore, particularly early Ceylonese settlers who played a role in shaping Singapore’s cultural and social landscape, and referred to Sri Lankan-born painter James De Alwis, the first botanical artist employed by the Botanic Gardens in 1890. Dr. Puthucheary also reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to strengthening ties with Sri Lanka, underscoring the potential for collaboration in trade, investment, education, digital transformation, and sustainability.
Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Singapore, Senarath Dissanayake outlined Sri Lanka’s economic progress and ambitious reforms under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Disanayaka. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s economic progress in 2024 that reflected a strong resurgence in investor confidence. High Commissioner Dissanayake further highlighted Sri Lanka’s recognition as a top global travel destination, with endorsements from Lonely Planet, Vogue Magazine, BBC Travel Guide, and Travel & Tour World and invited Singaporeans and friends of Sri Lanka to explore Sri Lanka’s breath-taking landscapes, heritage, and unique experiences.
The High Commissioner also underscored Sri Lanka’s focus on digital transformation and AI governance, highlighting the visit of officials from the Monetary Authority of Singapore to discuss future collaborations in the digital economy and fintech sector and the forthcoming MoU with AI Singapore. He also acknowledged Sri Lanka’s expanding workforce collaborations with Singapore.
The evening was enriched by cultural performances by renowned dancers from the Channa-Upuli Performing Arts Foundation Sri Lanka and Apsaras Dance Academy Singapore, which was founded by a renowned Sri Lankan expatriate. The captivating cultural performances showcased the vibrancy of Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage. Guests were treated to an authentic Sri Lankan culinary experience featuring a live hopper station and a curated selection of traditional delicacies, offering a true taste of Sri Lanka’s gastronomic culture.
As part of the celebrations, the High Commission published a special souvenir featuring the Independence Day messages from the President, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism of Sri Lanka. The publication also highlighted the High Commission’s key activities in 2024 and included promotional content on Sri Lanka’s tourism, Ceylon tea, investment opportunities, and the gem and jewellery sector.
This was the second of a series of events organised by the High Commission to mark the 77th anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka and the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This event was organized with the support of sponsors and well-wishers.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Singapore
04 March 2025
