COLOMBO, Sri Lanka The Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council (SLNBC), in collaboration with the Embassy of Nepal in Colombo and in association with Mastercard as the Title Sponsor, successfully hosted “Bridging Nations through Harmony” on 15 July 2026 at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, commemorating the 69th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Nepal.
The elegant musical celebration brought together an esteemed gathering of dignitaries from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the diplomatic corps, government agencies, embassy representatives, Mastercard, leading business leaders, and members of the private sector, reflecting the shared commitment of both nations to strengthening bilateral relations through diplomacy, culture, and commerce.
Delivering the welcome address, Mr. Indhra Kaushal Rajapaksa, President of the Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council, warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to fostering stronger trade, tourism, investment, and people-to-people ties between Nepal and Sri Lanka.
Representing the Embassy of Nepal in Colombo, Mr. Vijay Kumar Raut, Charge d’ affaires a.i., reflected on the nearly seven decades of cordial diplomatic relations between the two countries. He highlighted the enduring friendship, mutual respect, and growing cooperation that continue to strengthen the partnership between Nepal and Sri Lanka.
The evening was graced by Dr. Kaushalya Kumarasinghe, Director of the SAARC Cultural Centre, Colombo, as the Chief Guest. In his insightful and inspiring address, he emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy as a bridge between nations and highlighted the role of regional cooperation in fostering peace, mutual understanding, and sustainable partnerships. He commended the initiative as a meaningful celebration of the longstanding friendship shared by Nepal and Sri Lanka.
The Guest of Honour, Mrs. Varuni Muthukumarana, Director General (South Asia) & SAARC Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, underscored the significance of strengthening bilateral relations and regional collaboration. She also conveyed a special message from Hon. Arun Hemachandra, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, extending his warm congratulations and best wishes to the Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council and the Embassy of Nepal on the occasion of the 69th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Mr. Sandun Hapugoda, Country Manager for Mastercard in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, overseeing operations across South Asia including Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, delivered special remarks highlighting the immense potential for strengthening trade, tourism, and financial inclusion between Sri Lanka and Nepal. He emphasized the rapid growth of the digital ecosystem and the role of frictionless payment infrastructure in making cross-border transactions faster, safer, and more efficient for businesses and consumers alike. Reaffirming Mastercard’s commitment as a trusted partner in regional development, he noted that the company will continue to support initiatives that promote knowledge sharing, innovation, digital commerce, enhanced tourism experiences, and greater participation of businesses in the global economy.
The highlight of the evening was the captivating musical showcase that celebrated the rich cultural heritage of both Sri Lanka and Nepal. Through music and artistic performances, “Bridging Nations through Harmony” beautifully reflected the shared values of friendship, diversity, and mutual appreciation that have defined the relationship between the two countries for nearly seven decades.
The organisers extended their sincere appreciation to Mastercard, the Title Sponsor, for its invaluable partnership in making the celebration possible. Special acknowledgment was also extended to the event sponsors—Beam Hela Osu (Pvt) Ltd., Rockland Distilleries (Pvt) Ltd., Shreem International (Pvt) Ltd., and Lakmali Trading Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.—for their generous support and contribution towards the success of the event.
The formal proceedings concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Maneesha Kannangara, Event Chairperson and Executive Committee Member of the Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to the distinguished guests, sponsors, partners, performers, organising committee, and all attendees whose support and presence made the celebration a resounding success.
“Bridging Nations through Harmony” concluded as a memorable celebration of the 69th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Sri Lanka, reaffirming the enduring friendship, cultural affinity, and spirit of regional cooperation shared by the two nations. More than a commemorative event, it reflected the shared vision of strengthening bilateral engagement through meaningful partnerships and collaboration. As the bridge between the business communities of Sri Lanka and Nepal, the Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council remains committed to advancing trade, investment, tourism, and people-to-people connections by facilitating business networking, trade delegations, investment promotion, market access initiatives, knowledge-sharing platforms, and policy advocacy. Through these efforts and its strategic partnerships, the Council continues to support entrepreneurs, traders, investors, and professionals while fostering sustainable economic growth and creating new opportunities for collaboration and prosperity between the two countries.
Anura Premalal
pic by- Thushara Fernendo
