The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh in collaboration with the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs of Sri Lanka facilitated the first ever participation of four Sri Lankan companies of handicrafts in the Saudi International Handicrafts Week Exhibition "Banan 2024. The event was held in Riyadh from 23to 29 November 2024.
Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ameer Ajwad officially inaugurated the Sri Lankan pavilion at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Centre. Welcoming Ambassador Ameer Ajwad to the inauguration of the International Handicrafts Expo, the CEO of the Saudi Heritage Commission, Dr. Jasir Alharbis presented a memento to the Ambassador.
At a follow up meeting held at the Embassy fostering interaction with artisans, Ambassador Ameer Ajwad stressed that the participation of Sri Lankan SME companies of handicrafts in the international exhibitions will showcase and market their products to the international audience particularly in Saudi Arabia where mega projects in tourism and hospitality sectors are unfolding. He also highlighted that promoting innovative products introduced by Sri Lankan SMEs and startup companies will diversify the export basket of Sri Lanka and support the handicrafts industry of the country.
The Saudi International Handicrafts Week Exhibition "Banan-2024 is annually organized by the Saudi Heritage Commission under the patronage of the Minister of Culture of Saudi Arabia.
Banan Expo 2024 was participated by artisans from over 25 countries. Sri Lankan brands that participated at the Banan 2024 were Warna Batik, Paritho Leather Crafting, Natural Fiber products and Handicrafts and Sumaguna Products.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Riyadh
02 December 2024
