A successful series of high-profile events, led by the visit of legendary French international rugby player and coach Serge BETSEN, concluded last night, marking a significant step in promoting Sri Lanka as a sustainable tourism and manufacturing hub while strengthening bilateral relations with France.
Ahead of the formal engagements, Serge BETSEN embarked on a curated tour of Sri Lanka accompanied by a French media team. The group explored key attractions across the island, capturing cinematic footage, cultural experiences, and in-depth interviews aimed at highlighting Sri Lanka’s diverse tourism offering to the French market. The coverage, set to air across French media platforms, is expected to boost the country’s international visibility and reinforce its appeal as a premier destination for sustainable and experiential travel.
The three-day visit, held from November 18th to 20th, commenced with elite rugby training sessions in Kandy and Colombo. Serge BETSEN personally mentored young Sri Lankan athletes, sharing principles of resilience, discipline, and mental fortitude that shaped his celebrated career. His involvement strengthened sporting ties and encouraged the exchange of international rugby standards with local players
The visit culminated in a spectacular Wine Evening and Fashion Show, where French haute couture influences met the vibrant innovation of Sri Lankan design. Organized in collaboration with Mod’Art International, the event showcased a fusion of artistic expression, bridging two cultures through elegance, colour, and craftsmanship. Guests were treated to an exclusive selection of French wines sourced directly from renowned vineyards, complementing the evening’s refined aesthetic.
The gala, hosted by Tharindu Ameresekere, featured addresses by several dignitaries, including His Excellency the Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka, SLFBC President Andre Fernando, and Special Guest Serge BETSEN, who spoke on resilience and the value of cross-cultural partnerships.
The initiative was supported by a strong network of corporate partners. Platinum Sponsors included MAC Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, Antiquity – Simply Unusual, Clove Beach Wadduwa, and Legends and Paradise. Gold Sponsors were Dialog, La Maison de Colombo, Mastercard, Michelin by DIMO, See Lanka, and Teejay. Additional support was extended by Esteemed Sponsors including: American Water, Lion Royal, E-FM, Swarnavahini, Shree FM, Emerging Media, and Prishan Pandithage Studios. Cinnamon Grand Colombo served as the Venue Partner for the gala evening.
The initiative’s success—demonstrated both on the rugby field and on the fashion runway—has laid a strong foundation for future collaborations between Sri Lanka and France. By highlighting Sri Lanka’s capacity for sustainable tourism and manufacturing excellence, the events are expected to encourage deeper commercial partnerships and long-term investment, further strengthening the bond between the two nations.
