The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Thailand hosted a reception to mark the 77th Independence Day of Sri Lanka and the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand on 10 February 2025. Held at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, the event was attended by around 400 distinguished guests, including ministers, permanent secretaries, members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, business community and members of the Sri Lankan community in Thailand.
The chief guest of the evening was President of the National Assembly of Thailand, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha. Other dignitaries including Deputy Minister of Interior, Theerarat Samrejvanich and Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lalivan Karnchanachari also graced the occasion.
In her welcome address, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka in Bangkok, Wijayanthi Edirisinghe highlighted the significance of the event: “Under the visionary leadership of President of Sri Lanka Anura Kumara Disanayaka, our Independence Day celebrations carry a profound theme: ‘Let us unite for national revival’”, she stated. She also emphasized the enduring friendship and cooperation between Sri Lanka and Thailand, underpinned by shared cultural and historical ties.
Furthermore, the Ambassador highlighted a defining milestone in bilateral relations—the upcoming Sri Lanka-Thailand Free Trade Agreement, set to come into force opening new avenues for trade and investment, benefiting businesses in both countries and fostering a more dynamic economic partnership.
Tourism and cultural exchanges were also celebrated as key pillars of the bilateral relationship. The Ambassador announced the upcoming Sri Lanka Food Festival and Ayurveda Week to be held at the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, showcasing Sri Lanka's rich culinary heritage and wellness traditions.
Adding vibrancy to the evening, a dance troupe from the Sri Lanka Air Force delivered colorful and dynamic performances, captivating the audience with traditional and contemporary dance displays.
In his remarks, chief guest Wan Muhamad Noor Matha stated “As a representative of the legislative branch, I am committed to working closely with the Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Thailand, the Sri Lankan Parliament, and the Government of Sri Lanka to strengthen and sustain the relations between our governments, businesses, and people in all aspects going forward”.
The event is a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between Sri Lanka and Thailand, reflecting a shared commitment to deepening cooperation in political, economic, and cultural spheres for the benefit of both countries.
Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka
Bangkok
17 February 2025
