On the invitation of the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka to Texas Dakshini Senanayake, Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Washington D.C. Mahinda Samarasinghe visited Houston, Texas on 24 February 2024. During the visit, the Ambassador engaged with Sri Lankan Americans and visited two Buddhist temples in Houston. Texas is one of the larger US states with a significant population of Sri Lankans.
In honour of the Ambassador, Honorary Consul Senanayake hosted a reception at Hilton Houston Westchase which was well attended by prominent Americans of Sri Lankan origin, multiethnic communities, representatives of business communities and academia, and government officials in Houston.
During his remarks at the reception, Ambassador Samarasinghe apprised the audience of Sri Lanka’s current economic status whilst informing the various initiatives taken to strengthen bilateral relations. The Ambassador also mentioned that Sri Lanka is exploring opportunities in the areas of trade, investment, and tourism in the US. He appreciated the contribution of the Honorary Consul Senanayake for her dedication to reinforce relations between the two countries.
Ambassador Samarsinghe also visited the two Buddhist temples and met with the Chief Prelate of Houston Buddhist ViharaVen. Basnagoda Rahula and Chief Abbot of Metta Vihara Ven. Buthpitiye Samitha virtually amidst the resident monks in the two temples. During temple visits, he also met with the Sri Lankan community and students of educational institutions in Houston.
This visit highlighted the significance of further bolstering relations between Sri Lanka and the United States whilst appreciating the contribution made by the Sri Lankan community in Texas.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington D.C.
04 March 2024
