Live screening introduced guests in Singapore to Sri Lanka’s revered cultural tradition.

A live screening of the Kandy Esala Perahera 2026 was held on 27 August at the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple in Singapore, attended by members of the Venerable Maha Sangha, diplomats, Buddhist devotees and the Sri Lankan community.

Among the distinguished guests were the Ambassadors of Japan, Mongolia and Myanmar, along with representatives from the diplomatic missions of India, Pakistan, Viet Nam, Cambodia, ������ and Lao PDR. The programme included a brief religious observance, followed by lotus flower and lamp offerings at the sacred Bodhi tree.

Guests were then ceremonially ushered into the main hall by traditional Sri Lankan dancers and drummers.

H.E. Senarath Dissanayake, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Singapore, spoke about the cultural, religious and historical importance of the Kandy Esala Perahera. Mr. Nimal Dharmasiriwardhane, President of the Singapore Sinhala Buddhist Association, also delivered brief remarks.

The audience watched the procession begin at the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy before continuing through the city streets.

The event was organised by the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, with assistance from the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

The collection commemorates 55 years of Singapore–Sri Lanka diplomatic relations through publications on Sri Lanka’s heritage and biodiversity.

A Sri Lanka Book Collection opened in the International Section of the National Library of Singapore, offering readers insights into the country’s cultural heritage and biodiversity.

Announced by the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore on 18 August 2026, the initiative commemorated the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Sri Lanka. The High Commission invited readers to explore the collection at the library.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

The visit included regional discussions on peace and cooperation, alongside bilateral meetings with international counterparts.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath led the Sri Lankan delegation to the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and the commemorative event for the 50th Anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in Southeast Asia, held in Manila, the Philippines, from 23 to 24 July 2026.

During the ARF Ministerial Meeting, Minister Herath reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to promoting peace, regional stability and inclusive economic prosperity. He also expressed Sri Lanka’s readiness to strengthen engagement with ARF member states, including peacekeeping initiatives.

On the sidelines of the meetings, Minister Herath held bilateral discussions with counterparts from Bangladesh, Canada, Chile, the Netherlands, Pakistan, the Philippines, Russia and Singapore. He also met the United States Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, the United States Ambassador to India, the Secretary General of ASEAN, the High Representative of the European Union and the Vice President of the Asian Development Bank.

During his visit, Minister Herath inaugurated the Office of the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Mindanao and visited the construction site of Haycarb, Sri Lanka’s first investment project in the Philippines.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

The High Commission reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical public service as part of Sri Lanka’s nationwide National Integrity Week initiative.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore joined the commencement of Sri Lanka’s National Integrity Week 2026 by participating in the national initiative, “A Culture of Integrity – A Clean Sri Lanka”, on 27 July.

As part of the observance, the High Commission’s staff read the National Integrity Pledge in both Sinhala and Tamil, reaffirming their commitment to upholding the values of transparency, integrity, accountability, and respect for the rule of law in line with Sri Lanka’s public service principles.

Led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, the national initiative seeks to strengthen the quality, efficiency, and transparency of the public service while promoting ethical values as the foundation of sustainable national development.

Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Aruni Ranaraja, addressed the gathering at the commencement of National Integrity Week, emphasising that integrity is demonstrated through everyday choices, accountability, fairness, and placing the public interest above personal interests. She also highlighted the Ministry’s role in representing Sri Lanka internationally through diplomacy, foreign employment, tourism, trade, and investment, noting that every interaction undertaken by the Ministry reflects on the country’s reputation.

Sri Lanka’s overseas missions and posts, including the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore, participated virtually in the national event, with more than 130 participants supporting the country’s integrity initiative.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

Sri Lanka showcased its luxury tourism offerings at ILTM Asia Pacific 2026 to strengthen partnerships with the global travel industry.

Sri Lanka promoted its luxury tourism offerings at the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Asia Pacific 2026, held from 29 June to 2 July 2026 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. The participation aimed to strengthen Sri Lanka’s presence in the global luxury travel market, foster new business partnerships, and position the country as a premier destination for high-value travellers.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

ILTM Asia Pacific is a leading business-to-business travel exhibition that brings together luxury travel advisors, tour operators, destinations, hotels, and tourism organisations from around the world through pre-scheduled business appointments and networking opportunities. The event provided a platform for Sri Lanka to engage with international travel buyers and industry stakeholders while showcasing the country’s premium tourism experiences.

The Sri Lanka Pavilion, organised by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, featured a diverse range of luxury tourism offerings, including wildlife experiences, wellness and Ayurveda, cultural heritage, luxury accommodation, adventure tourism, and bespoke travel itineraries. Throughout the four-day exhibition, the Sri Lankan delegation conducted a series of business meetings with international luxury travel buyers and tourism professionals, generating new business opportunities and strengthening ties with the global travel trade.

The delegation was led by Mr Chinthaka Liyanaarachchi, Deputy Director (Marketing) of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and comprised 15 tourism companies representing Sri Lanka’s luxury hospitality and travel sectors. Participating organisations included Aahaasa Collection – Aarunya Nature Resort, Aadya Tea Bungalows & Aavya Cove Villas; Abercrombie & Kent (Pvt) Ltd; Cuuraate; Sri Lanka Tailor-Made; Karusan Travels (Pvt) Ltd; Ceylon Roots Sri Lanka (LOLC Holdings PLC); Luxury Holidays Asia (Pvt) Ltd; Meshaun Journeys; Sri Lanka in Style; Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort; Ishq Luxury Villas; Transco Travels; Travel Design by CDC (Pvt) Ltd; Hilton Yala Resort; and Resplendent Ceylon.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

The High Commission of Sri Lanka showcased Pure Ceylon Tea during a networking luncheon focused on artificial intelligence, health, and science, highlighting one of the country’s flagship export products.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore promoted Pure Ceylon Tea during a business networking luncheon held on 25 June 2026 at the Chinese Swimming Club. The event, themed “Future Ready: A Focus on AI, Health and Science,” brought together professionals, entrepreneurs, academics, and industry leaders to exchange perspectives on developments in technology, healthcare, and innovation while providing an opportunity to showcase one of Sri Lanka’s flagship export products.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

The tea promotion formed part of the networking luncheon, which served as a platform for engagement among members of Singapore’s business and professional community. Alongside discussions on emerging technologies and innovation, the High Commission introduced guests to premium Ceylon Tea as part of its broader trade promotion and economic diplomacy initiatives.

During the event, Senarath Dissanayake and Ms. Bhagya Abeykoon engaged with attendees, highlighting the distinctive flavour, aroma, quality, and heritage of Sri Lanka’s internationally recognised tea. They underscored the significance of Ceylon Tea as one of the country’s leading export products and shared insights into its longstanding reputation in global markets.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore marked Vesak 2026 with religious observances, including an alms-giving and Dhamma sermon at the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple, bringing together members of the Sri Lankan community and devotees.

Singapore, 16 May 2026 – The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore commemorated Vesak 2026 with a series of religious activities at the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple on Saturday, 16 May 2026.

The observance began with the offering of Dahawal Dana (midday alms) to the resident monks of Sri Lankaramaya Viharaya. The religious programme continued in the evening with a Dhamma sermon attended by members of the Sri Lankan expatriate community, representatives of the Singapore Sinhala Buddhist Association, High Commission officials, and devotees.

The Dhamma sermon was delivered by Ven. D. Gnanarathana Thero, a resident monk of the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple, under the spiritual guidance of Ven. K. Rathanananda Nayaka Thero, Chief Incumbent of the temple.

During the sermon, Ven. Gnanarathana Thero reflected on the core teachings of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, emphasizing the importance of applying these principles in daily life. The sermon encouraged devotees to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and ethical conduct in accordance with Buddhist teachings.

At the conclusion of the religious observance, blessings were invoked for the Government and people of Sri Lanka, the High Commissioner and staff of the High Commission, as well as all participants present at the event.

The occasion also honoured the memory of the late Hon. Lakshman Kadirgamar, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, whose efforts were instrumental in securing international recognition of Vesak as a day of observance by the United Nations.

As part of Vesak week celebrations, the premises of the High Commission were decorated with Buddhist flags, colourful Vesak lanterns, and traditional festive adornments, creating a vibrant and spiritually uplifting atmosphere for visitors and worshippers.

The commemorative event highlighted the enduring significance of Vesak for Sri Lankans around the world and served as an opportunity for the community in Singapore to come together in reflection, prayer, and fellowship. Following the sermon, attendees were served light refreshments.

The annual observance reaffirmed the High Commission’s commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage while strengthening cultural and spiritual bonds among Sri Lankans living in Singapore.

Source: The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore marked International Tea Day 2026 with a cultural diplomacy event that showcased Sri Lankan heritage, promoted Ceylon tea, and strengthened engagement with the diplomatic and business communities in Singapore.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore organised “APOORVA: Unravel the Aesthetics of Sri Lanka”, a cultural evening and Ceylon tea promotion event, at Goodman Arts Centre in Singapore on 21 May 2026 to commemorate International Tea Day. The programme brought together members of the diplomatic corps, business community, and friends of Sri Lanka to showcase the country’s cultural heritage and tea industry while fostering people-to-people connections.

The event was organised in collaboration with the Apsaras Dance Company and formed part of the High Commission’s cultural outreach efforts in Singapore. The gathering was attended by more than 30 Heads of Mission, spouses of Heads of Mission, diplomats, representatives of the business community, and members of the Sri Lankan community and international friends. Guests represented a wide range of countries, including Argentina, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, China, Costa Rica, India, Japan, Malaysia, Mongolia, Mexico, Myanmar, Laos, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Switzerland, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

The cultural segment featured a curated presentation on Sri Lankan culture and heritage delivered by Mr Aravinth Kumarasamy, Artistic Director of the Apsaras Dance Company. The presentation was followed by performances showcasing traditional Kandyan dance and Bharatanatyam, highlighting the diversity and richness of Sri Lanka’s artistic traditions.

The second segment of the programme focused on the promotion of Ceylon tea. Guests participated in an exclusive tea-tasting experience featuring a selection of premium teas. The tea promotion was supported by Dilmah Ceylon Tea PLC and 1872 Clipper Tea Co. Clipper Tea presented a range of hot and cold-brew tea varieties, while Dilmah Tea provided specially curated Ceylon tea gift packs for attendees.

The event was graced by the Deputy Minister of Digital Economy of Sri Lanka, Hon. Eranga Weeraratne, who was in Singapore to attend Asia Tech x 2026. His presence underscored Sri Lanka’s continued engagement with Singapore across cultural, economic, and technological spheres.

The programme highlighted the role of cultural diplomacy and trade promotion in strengthening international partnerships and enhancing awareness of Sri Lanka’s heritage and products. Organisers expressed their appreciation to participants and partners for supporting the celebration of International Tea Day and fostering closer connections between Sri Lanka and Singapore.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore

Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, Mr Eranga Weeraratne represented Sri Lanka at Asia Tech x Singapore 2026, strengthening international partnerships in AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and digital innovation.

Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, Mr Eranga Weeraratne represented Sri Lanka at Asia Tech x Singapore 2026, which took place from 19 to 21 May 2026 at Capella Singapore.

During the three-day event, the Deputy Minister met senior government officials, technology industry leaders, academics, and members of the Sri Lankan professional community in Singapore. Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, cybersecurity, innovation, and AI adoption.

The Deputy Minister also held discussions with Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore; Ms Josephine Teo, Minister for Digital Development and Information; and Ms Rahayu Mahzam, Minister of State at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information. Talks focused on AI governance, digital public infrastructure, and technology-driven economic growth.

A bilateral meeting was also held with Bui Hoang Phuong, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology of Vietnam. The meeting focused on cybersecurity cooperation, data and digital economy collaboration, and strengthening bilateral technology partnerships. During the discussions, the Vietnamese Deputy Minister invited the Sri Lankan delegation to undertake an official visit to Vietnam to further advance digital economy cooperation between the two countries.

Further meetings were held with representatives from , Adaptation AI, and on matters related to AI adoption, digital inclusion, innovation, and technology-driven development.

The visit also included engagements with Singapore Cooperation Enterprise, , and . Discussions centered on youth digital empowerment, public sector digital capability development, AI adoption, and strengthening Sri Lanka’s innovation ecosystem.

The Deputy Minister also met members of the Sri Lankan professional and technology community in Singapore at the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore. Community members expressed interest in supporting Sri Lanka’s digital economy initiatives through mentorship, knowledge sharing, skills transfer, and collaborative projects.

The Sri Lankan delegation included HE Senarath Dissanayake, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Singapore; Sanjaya Karunasena, Executive Director and Acting Chief Executive Officer of GovTech Sri Lanka; Bhagya Abeykoon; and Nuwandi Jayasuriya.

Sri Lanka’s participation at ATxSG 2026 provided an important platform to strengthen international partnerships, promote AI adoption and digital innovation, and enhance the country’s presence in the regional digital economy sector.

Source and Photos Credit: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore