President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today called on Sri Lanka’s newly appointed state diplomats to actively promote the country’s ongoing political transformation and strengthen its image on the global stage.
Addressing the new diplomatic heads at the Presidential Secretariat, the President emphasised that ambassadors and high commissioners play a vital role in conveying Sri Lanka’s new direction to the international community. He invited them to be active participants in the country’s transformative journey and assured them of the government’s full backing.
President Dissanayake also urged the diplomats to prioritise the welfare of Sri Lankans living abroad and ensure consular services are delivered with fairness and without discrimination. “Sri Lankan missions must be a home for all citizens overseas,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of economic diplomacy, the President stressed that attracting foreign investment and promoting tourism should be key responsibilities. He added that identifying new markets for Sri Lankan entrepreneurs must also be a top priority.
Acknowledging past challenges faced by diplomats, President Dissanayake assured the government will stand by its representatives and safeguard their dignity and integrity.
The newly appointed heads of missions, all senior officials with over two decades of experience in public service, include:
- P.M. Kolonne – High Commissioner to India
- Rear Admiral Fred Senevirathna – High Commissioner to Pakistan
- S.D.N.U. Senadheera – High Commissioner to the United Kingdom
- Former Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya – Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York
- R.M. Mahinda Ratnayake – Ambassador to Cuba
- Prof. P. Janak Kumara – Ambassador to Japan
- Prof. Arusha Cooray – Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates
Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Aruni Ranaraja and Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage also attended the meeting.
