Sri Lanka has taken a fresh step in expanding its premium tea footprint in the Middle East with the launch of Bogawantalawa Tea at Tamimi Markets, Saudi Arabia’s leading hypermarket chain. 

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh stated that the event, held on July 09 in Riyadh, was officiated by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Kingdom, Ameer Ajwad, marking a milestone in strengthening the presence of Ceylon Tea in one of its most important export destinations. 

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Ameer Ajwad pointed out that Saudi Arabia is one of the most important export destinations for Ceylon Tea and that the launch of Bogawantalawa Tea marked yet another significant milestone in expanding the presence of premium Ceylon Tea in the Saudi market. 

While expressing appreciation to Tamimi Markets for providing an excellent platform to introduce premium Sri Lankan tea to Saudi consumers, the Ambassador proposed the establishment of a dedicated “Sri Lanka Corner” for premium Sri Lankan products in Tamimi Markets. He also highlighted the steady growth of Sri Lankan exports to Saudi Arabia in recent years and emphasized the importance of further expanding Sri Lanka’s export basket in the Kingdom.

Co-Chairman of Bogawantalawa Tea Ceylon, Lalith Kumar Ambani, introduced the Ceylon Tea Gardens brand, stating that Bogawantalawa Tea is internationally renowned for its exceptional quality, distinctive flavour, freshness, and heritage spanning over a century. He noted that the introduction of Bogawantalawa Tea under the Ceylon Tea Gardens brand enriches Tamimi Markets’ premium tea portfolio by providing consumers across Saudi Arabia with access to the authentic taste of premium Ceylon Tea.

Director/Chief Executive Officer of Bogawantalawa Tea Ceylon, Almas Marikkar, highlighted the company’s diverse product range and its commitment to corporate social responsibility through the welfare and development of estate communities, while Marketing Manager – Middle East and Asia of Bogawantalawa Tea Ceylon, Anne Ranasinghe presented the story behind Bogawantalawa Tea.

During the launch, Regional Senior Manager, Ayham Nasser, Business Development Director,  Bruce Bostwick, and Category Manager of Tamimi Markets, Husnee Thasim, participated and reaffirmed Tamimi Markets’ commitment to offering its customers the finest international brands.

First Secretary (Commerce) of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh, Tashma Vithanawasam, Assistant Manager Product Innovation and Infusions of Bogawantalawa Tea Ceylon, Kabeer Tharick and Tamimi Markets Area Managers, Riyad Salamih and Yassir Ghalib were also present on the occasion. (Newswire)

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The first batch of 325 Sri Lankan Hajj pilgrims, who arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Saturday (02), was received by the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ameer Ajwad, at the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. 

According to the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh, the arrival of the group marks the commencement of this year’s Hajj operations for Sri Lanka.

Acting Consul General Mafusa Lafir,  Asmiya Ameer Ajwad, officials of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah, representatives of Rehlat Wa Manafe, the designated Hajj service provider for Sri Lanka for 2026, and representatives of Nusuk Hajj operations were also present to welcome the pilgrims and facilitate their arrival arrangements.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Ameer Ajwad extended his best wishes to the pilgrims and highlighted the profound spiritual significance of the Hajj journey. 

He expressed sincere appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, for the meticulous arrangements and exceptional facilities provided to ensure the well-being and comfort of millions of Hajj pilgrims arriving in the Kingdom from around the globe, including Sri Lanka.

The Ambassador also assured the Sri Lankan pilgrims that the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh and the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah stand ready to assist them in fulfilling their religious obligation in a smooth, safe, and peaceful manner.

The Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh further states that for the Hajj 2026 season, arrangements have been made to accommodate 3,500 Sri Lankan pilgrims. 

This coordination involves close collaboration among the Sri Lanka Hajj Mission, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia, the designated Saudi service provider, and local travel operators to ensure the successful conduct of the pilgrimage. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has appealed to the public for assistance in locating information about the next of kin of Ms. Rahima Sahabdeen, a Sri Lankan national currently detained in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

The request follows a notice from the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah, which highlighted the urgent need to establish her identity in order to facilitate repatriation.

Issuing a statement, the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that Ms. Rahima is suffering from memory loss and is unable to provide documentary proof of her identity. 

As a result, the ministry has requested assistance in tracing her next of kin or acquaintances to move forward with the repatriation process.

Those with information have been requested to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via the hotline +94 11 2275 530 or email: consular@mfa.gov.lk. (Newswire)  

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Saudi Arabia announced on Thursday granting a financial support amounting to $8 billion to boost Pakistan’s economic stability. 

This is in line with the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia has continued its support to enhance Pakistan’s economic stability by extending the term of an existing $5 billion deposit at the State Bank of Pakistan and announcing an additional deposit of $3 billion, the Saudi Press Agency reported. This reflects the strong ties and ongoing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

This assistance aims at supporting Pakistan’s economy and strengthening its resilience amidst evolving global economic challenges, and comes in accordance with the leadership’s directives to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood between the two countries. 

This affirms the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering the economic growth of Pakistan, which is expected to reflect positively on the living conditions of Pakistani citizens. (Saudi Gazette)

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At least two people have been killed after a projectile fell on a residential location in Saudi Arabia‘s Al-Kharj city, Saudi authorities reported, as Iranian counterattacks on Gulf nations hosting US military assets entered a second week.

The Saudi civil defence said in a post on X on Sunday, without mentioning Iran, that an unspecified “military projectile” had hit a residential area in Al-Kharj, killing two foreign nationals – one Indian and one Bangladeshi – and injuring 12 people.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had said earlier that it had targeted radar systems in locations including Al-Kharj governorate, which is home to the Prince Sultan airbase used by United States forces, and has come under repeated attack over the past week in the US and Israeli war against Iran.

Reporting from Doha, Al Jazeera’s Laura Khan said the projectile had landed on a residential site belonging to a maintenance and cleaning company.

“This is getting very volatile and dangerous for people across the Gulf,” she said. “It’s really important to emphasise that over 200 nationalities live and work across the Gulf nations. Many of these could be labourers.”

On Sunday, the Saudi Defence Ministry reported intercepting 15 drones, including an attempted attack in the diplomatic quarter of the capital Riyadh.

Kuwait, meanwhile, said an attack hit fuel tanks at its international airport, and Bahrain reported a water desalination plant had been damaged.

Sunday’s attacks came after Israeli warplanes hit five oil facilities around the Iranian capital, killing several people, according to a state oil executive, and blanketing the city in acrid smoke.

As the war extended into its ninth day, the IRGC said it had enough supplies to continue drone and missile attacks across the Middle East for up to six months.

Ahmed Aboul Gheit, secretary-general of the Arab League, said Iran’s attacks on several member states were “reckless”, urging Tehran to reverse what he called a “massive strategic mistake”.

Iran’s Health Ministry said Sunday that at least 1,200 civilians had been killed and around 10,000 wounded since the US and Israel launched their war on Iran on February 28. (Al Jazeera)

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• Israeli forces continue their assault on Tehran and Beirut, including a strike on the Iranian state broadcaster, as the death toll in Iran and Lebanon surpasses 600 people.
• Saudi authorities say two drones hit the US Embassy in Riyadh, causing a limited fire and minor damage.
• US President Donald Trump says the military campaign against Iran could last about four weeks, pledging that Washington will do whatever it takes to destroy Tehran’s missile and nuclear capabilities.
• Iran has struck energy infrastructure across the Gulf, sending global oil and gas prices sharply higher. Qatar’s state-owned petroleum company has suspended all liquefied natural gas production after two of its facilities were hit.
• Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says the Strait of Hormuz – through which a fifth of the world’s oil consumption passes – is now “closed”, and warns that any vessels attempting to pass through the waterway will be attacked.
• Iran continues to attack sites across Israel, with the Israeli military reporting missile interceptions over West Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Eilat. At least 10 people have been killed in Israel since Saturday. 
• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says “the hardest hits” on Iran are “yet to come,” adding he would not “give away details of our tactical efforts”. (Al Jazeera)

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Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Chathuranga Abeysinghe, highlighted new opportunities for collaboration following his recent visit to Riyadh, where he represented Sri Lanka in discussions with Saudi business leaders and members of the Saudi–Sri Lanka Joint Business Council.

Taking to ‘X’, Abeysinghe noted that while bilateral ties are still evolving, Sri Lankan exports to Saudi Arabia are growing, and negotiations are underway for a Trade Promotion and Investment Agreement to further ease trade.

He emphasized the role of the 200,000 Sri Lankans living and working in Saudi Arabia as a vital people-to-people link.

Key sectors identified for future cooperation include renewable energy, shipping and maritime services, tourism, technology and startups, and agriculture. 

Abeysinghe stressed that Sri Lankan small and medium-sized enterprises, though modest in scale, are world-class in capability and can benefit from partnerships with Saudi brands and investors, potentially even attracting production bases in the Kingdom.

He added that the government is focusing on government-to-government collaboration and targeted proposals aligned with Saudi market needs, enabling both private sectors to engage more effectively.

“This visit reaffirmed that the Sri Lanka–Saudi Arabia partnership has great potential, and with strategic cooperation, we can build lasting economic growth and opportunities for both nations,” Abeysinghe said.

He also commended Sri Lankan Ambassador in Riyadh, Omar Ameer Ajwad, for his dedicated service in strengthening bilateral ties.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Chathuranga Abeysinghe’s interview with Arab News: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2630665/business-economy (Newswire)

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Sri Lankan exports to Saudi Arabia recorded a 19% increase from January to September 2025, compared to the corresponding period in 2024, according to the Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh.

Commenting on this achievement, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ameer Ajwad, stated that this double-digit growth represents an outstanding accomplishment in 2025, achieved through sustained and well-coordinated efforts undertaken by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh in close collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, the Department of Commerce, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, the Sri Lanka Tea Board, and other relevant institutions.

The Ambassador further noted that the Embassy adopted a concerted strategy aimed at enhancing the visibility of Sri Lankan products, including active participation in major international trade exhibitions held across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Ambassador Ajwad also stated that total bilateral trade between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia expanded by 9%, reflecting the growing complementarities and strengthening economic partnership between the two countries.

Trade volumes have continued to increase steadily, with Saudi Arabia remaining a key export market for Sri Lankan products such as tea, spices, fruits, vegetables, coconut-based products, processed foods including frozen seafood, construction materials, and other consumer goods. Concurrently, Sri Lanka continues to import essential commodities and energy supplies from the Kingdom, underscoring a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship.

In 2025 alone, ten (10) Sri Lankan business delegations visited Saudi Arabia, comprising companies specializing in food and beverages, agricultural products, construction materials, furniture, tourism, and manpower. In December 2025, the Embassy facilitated the launch of Sri Lankan products by Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL) in collaboration with Amalcom Company, an initiative expected to further enhance Sri Lankan exports to the Saudi market.

Such coordinated trade-promotion initiatives have significantly contributed to expanding market access, strengthening commercial ties, and enhancing the visibility of Sri Lankan products in the rapidly growing Saudi market.

The year 2025 also marked a historic milestone with the establishment of the first-ever Saudi–Sri Lanka Joint Business Council, facilitated by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh. The Council was jointly formed between the Federation of Saudi Chambers (FSC) and the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) and was officially launched during the visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, to Riyadh in November 2025. The Joint Business Council is expected to be a game-changer, serving as a vital platform for structured dialogue, trade facilitation, investment promotion, and enhanced private-sector collaboration between the two countries.

In addition, to promote Sri Lankan tourism in Saudi Arabia, the Sri Lankan Embassy facilitated “Twin Tourism Roadshows” in Riyadh and Dammam in April 2025, after a six-year hiatus, with the participation of the top twenty (20) Sri Lankan Destination Management Companies (DMCs), in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB).

The Embassy also facilitated “Twin Sri Lankan Manpower Roadshows” in Riyadh and Dammam in May 2025, following an eight-year hiatus, with the participation of the top fifteen (15) Sri Lankan manpower-supplying agencies, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE). Additionally, the Embassy facilitated the participation of 26 SLBFE-licensed foreign employment agencies at Saudi Arabia’s largest HRLS Manpower Expo, held in Riyadh in November 2025. The Sri Lanka Pavilion at the Expo was inaugurated by the visiting Minister, Vijitha Herath. Sri Lankan manpower agencies are actively engaged in promotional and networking activities aimed at expanding employment opportunities for Sri Lankan workers in the Kingdom.

The Sri Lankan Embassy said its proactive role in promoting trade, investment, tourism, and manpower sectors throughout 2025 has produced tangible results and contributed to a more structured and strategic framework for bilateral economic engagement. Taken together, these developments underscore a strong and forward-looking momentum in economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia across multiple sectors and initiatives, it added in a statement. (Newswire)

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Saudi Energia Company has donated eight high-capacity tower light generators valued at USD 43,000 to support recovery operations and reconstruction efforts in areas affected by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka. 

The donation has been made in response to an initiative by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh, while the Embassy is making arrangements to dispatch the generators to Sri Lanka for use in ongoing relief work.

The Managing Director of Energia, Mahammed Mohin Shaikh, along with Energia officials and employees, participated in the handing-over ceremony held at the Energia Al Kharj Road facility in Riyadh.

Receiving the donation from the CEO of Energia, Hassen Shahid, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ameer Ajwad, expressed his sincere appreciation to Saudi Energia Company for its timely and meaningful contribution. 

The Ambassador highlighted that the support extended by Energia is an exemplary gesture, reflecting a strong spirit of solidarity and a great sense of corporate social responsibility beyond business interests. (Newswire)

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The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Sri Lanka Postal Department and the Saudi Post Corporation to issue two commemorative stamps.

The stamps, featuring historical sites from both countries, are intended to mark fifty years of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia in 2024. 

According to the government, the initiative aims to further strengthen bilateral ties and foster goodwill between the peoples of the two nations.

The proposal was presented by the Minister of Health and Mass Media and received Cabinet approval, paving the way for the two postal authorities to collaborate on the commemorative issue. (Newswire)

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At least 42 may have died when a bus full of Indian Umrah travellers hit a diesel tanker near Medina on Monday (Nov 17) morning, local media in Saudi Arabia reported.

Most of the victims of the horrific accident are believed to be Indian citizens, some reportedly from Hyderabad. The Telangana government said it has reached out to the Indian Embassy in Riyadh for information. In a brief statement, officials confirmed that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has asked authorities in New Delhi to stay in close contact with embassy staff and track developments.

Reports suggest that the accident occurred near 1:30 am IST (approximately 11 pm, November 16 local time) in Mufrihat. The vehicle carrying pilgrims who had finished their Umrah pilgrimage was travelling from Mecca to Madinah. As per MediaOne, there were 43 people on the bus—but just one made it through. The survivor has been shifted to a medical centre. Maktoob Media reported that around 20 women, along with 11 kids, were on the bus. Since most seemed to be sleeping during the crash, they barely had a chance to react after flames spread.

Local officials estimate that 42 people have died in the tragic crash, but have not yet released an official figure and said they were checking for any additional survivors.

CGI Jeddah launches 24×7 control room

The Consulate General of India, in a social media post, has set up a 24×7 Control Room to aid Indians in Saudi Arabia. CGI Jeddah has also shared a toll-free helpline number.

In an official statement, the state government confirmed that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has alerted officials in New Delhi and instructed them to coordinate closely with embassy authorities. Telangana Chief Secretary in Hyderabad, Ramakrishna Rao, alerted the Resident Commissioner Gaurav Uppal, who is in Delhi. He ordered to collect details on how many people belonging to our state are in the accident and provide them immediately as per the CMO. (WION)

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The Sri Lanka – Saudi Arabia Joint Business Council was established following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), making it the first-ever B2B Forum between the two countries.

The MOU was signed between the Federation of Saudi Chambers (FSC) and the Sri Lanka Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (SLFCC) at the headquarters of the FSC in Riyadh on Tuesday (11). 

Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath said the Joint Business Council would serve as a catalyst to enhance the much-needed closer private sector interactions between the two countries.

“I witnessed the launch of the historic Sri Lanka – Saudi Arabia Joint Business Council (11). Chairman of the Federation of Saudi Chambers Hassan Al-Huwaizi and President of the Sri Lanka Chambers of Commerce and Industry Keerthi Gunawardane, who virtually joined the meeting, signed the MoU establishing the Business Council. Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ameer Ajwad, and Chairman of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce Hassan Al-Huwaizi exchanged the signed MoU. This is a long-awaited first-ever B2B Forum between the two countries, which would serve as a catalyst to enhance the much-needed closer private sector interactions between the two countries,” Minister Herath said in a post on ‘X’. 

Minister Vijitha Herath added that he also addressed the Federation of Saudi Chambers, highlighting trade and investment opportunities in Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

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Saudi Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Khalid bin Hamoud Alkahtani, says Saudi Arabia hosts more than 250,000 Sri Lankan workers, who contribute significantly to the country’s development. 

In his message for the 95th National Day of Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Alkahtani said bilateral relations have developed significantly under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

He further said that several agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed between the two countries in various fields, and several more agreements and memoranda of understanding are in the process of being signed. 

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Sri Lanka have enjoyed more than 51 years of formal diplomatic relations. Our relations are based on mutual respect, common interests and growing cooperation,” he added. 

The full statement of Saudi Ambassador Khalid bin Hamoud Alkahtani;

As we celebrate the ninety-fifth National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we not only celebrate our past, but also envision a brighter future, one that is inclusive, sustainable, innovative, and prosperous under the Kingdom’s wise leadership. 

On this day, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates the ninety-fifth anniversary of its founding by its founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud. Every year, on this day, we recall the heroic actions taken by the founder to unite the Kingdom, unify its unity, and build its entity. After him, all kings continued the journey, achieving development and positioning the Kingdom at a high economic and political level, both regionally and globally. 

I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and to the generous Saudi people. I wish the Kingdom further progress and development under the wisdom and acumen of its wise leadership. 

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the reign of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud – may the Almighty protect him – and under the vision of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has witnessed further tremendous development achievements in various fields and at all levels. This is achieved through the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which encompasses promising future projects and profound strategic plans for the development of the Kingdom, raising the standards of its citizens at all levels, and investing in people first and foremost through education, health, and empowering youth and women, followed by development projects such as NEOM, The Line, The Mukaab, Qiddiya, The Red Sea International, ROSHN, and King Salman Park. 

The Kingdom is a key partner in maintaining international peace and security. Over the past few years, the Kingdom has hosted numerous summits, conferences, and meetings aimed at achieving international peace and security worldwide. Everyone may have recently followed the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the French Republic to peacefully resolve the Palestinian issue and implement the two-state solution. The Kingdom also prioritizes environmental conservation, protecting the planet, and mitigating climate risks. This was culminated in the announcement by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of a number of initiatives in this field, including the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, the establishment of a global water organization based in Riyadh, and increased reliance on clean energy. 

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Sri Lanka have enjoyed more than 51 years of formal diplomatic relations. Our relations are based on mutual respect, common interests and growing cooperation. These bilateral relations have developed significantly under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Excellency Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of the Republic of Sri Lanka, with several agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between the two countries in various fields, and several more agreements and memoranda of understanding are in the process of being signed. The SaudiSri Lankan Joint Committee held its first meeting in Riyadh recently, and the second meeting will be held in the Republic of Sri Lanka in the coming period. This committee has explored several areas of cooperation across multiple sectors. 

In the economic field, our bilateral trade volume reached approximately US$275 million in 2024, with the Kingdom’s total exports to Sri Lanka amounting to US$135 million, while Sri Lanka’s total exports to the Kingdom amounted to US$140 million. We look forward to increasing the trade volume between the two countries in the coming years. 

Development cooperation is a cornerstone of our bilateral relationship. The Saudi Fund for Development has financed more than 15 major development projects in Sri Lanka, with total assistance exceeding SAR 1.5 billion (approximately US$425 million). We recently inaugurated the Wayamba University Township Development Project, one of the most significant of these projects. In addition, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief) has implemented more than 23 humanitarian projects in Sri Lanka worth over US$15 million, focusing on health, nutrition, and emergency relief. Last week, we completed two Saudi Noor volunteer project to combat blindness and related diseases in Sri Lanka. 

Saudi Arabia hosts more than 250,000 Sri Lankan workers, who contribute significantly to our country’s development. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia provides free scholarships annually to Sri Lankan students, with the total number of scholarships over the past years amounting to more than 500 scholarships. Also, thousands of Sri Lankans also visit the Kingdom annually to perform Umrah, Hajj or for tourism. 

The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 represents an ambitious roadmap to transform the Kingdom into a global hub for investment, innovation, and tourism. In this context, I warmly invite Sri Lankan companies, citizens, and businesspeople to explore the tremendous investment opportunities available in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly in the tourism, clean energy, agriculture, and logistics sectors, and our pioneering mega projects, as well as to enjoy tourism in the Kingdom, which offers numerous tourist destinations and diverse recreational activities for tourists to benefit from. 

Finally, I pray to the Almighty to grant our two friendly countries and peoples further success and progress. (Newswire)

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Minister of Energy, Kumara Jayakody, has been elected as the President of the Sri Lanka – Saudi Arabia Parliamentary Friendship Association for the Tenth Parliament of Sri Lanka. 

At the revival meeting of the Association held in Parliament recently (07), MP Thushari Jayasinghe was elected as the Secretary of the Association

The meeting was held under the patronage of the Speaker, Jagath Wickramaratne, while the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Sri Lanka, Khalid Hamoud Nasser Alkahtani, attended the event as the Guest of Honour, which was also attended by several Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Members of Parliament, and the Secretary General of Parliament.

Addressing the gathering, Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne highlighted the enduring diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia, noting that Saudi Arabia has been a vital partner in Sri Lanka’s development journey. 

He commended Saudi Arabia’s significant contributions to the projects in water, energy, health, law, and education through the Saudi Fund for Development, which have positively impacted the lives of Sri Lankans. The Speaker also recognized the recent agreement with the Saudi Fund for Development as a key milestone in Sri Lanka’s external debt restructuring process.

Also addressing the meeting, Ambassador Khalid Hamoud Nasser Alkahtani underscored the decades-long ties between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka, rooted in mutual respect and productive cooperation in areas including politics, economics, and culture. He observed that in recent years, the partnership between the two nations has grown stronger and emphasized that the Parliamentary Friendship Association will serve as a bridge for enhanced parliamentary dialogue and cooperation.

The newly elected President, Minister Kumara Jayakody, pledged to strengthen bilateral relations further, focusing on education, trade, infrastructure, and tourism. He emphasized the role of the Association as a platform for fostering mutual understanding, people-to-people connections, and legislative dialogue between the two countries.

Delivering the vote of thanks, MP Thushari Jayasinghe expressed her appreciation to the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Sri Lanka for his presence and continued commitment to fostering strong ties between the two nations. She also conveyed her gratitude to the Speaker for his leadership in promoting dialogue and friendship between Sri Lanka and its international partners.

As part of his visit to Parliament, the Saudi Ambassador also held discussions with Speaker, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, focusing on avenues to enhance cooperation and reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s support for Sri Lanka. 

He also paid courtesy calls on Deputy Speaker, Rizvie Salih, and Leader of the House, Minister Bimal Ratnayake. These meetings explored new opportunities for collaboration across multiple sectors, further reinforcing the friendship and cooperation between the two countries. (Newswire)

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A mega Sri Lanka Tourism Roadshow was held in Saudi Arabia this week (22 Apr), organized by the Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB). 

According to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh, Sri Lankan Ambassador Ameer Ajwad inaugurated the roadshow and welcomed a large number of tourism Destination Management Companies (DMCs) participating from both Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia at the exclusive Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Roadshow. 

Ambassador Ameer Ajwad underscored that the initiative marked a significant new chapter in Sri Lanka’s tourism promotion in Saudi Arabia, as it comes after a six-year hiatus. He also pointed out that this year the “Sri Lanka Tourism Road Show” was taking place at the dawn of a new era as Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia are commemorating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations. This is high time to take stock of the current status of the tourism industry between the two countries and plan for the future enhancement of the industry, he said. Also highlighting the historical links between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia, he urged DMCs of both countries to collaborate in marketing Sri Lanka tourism in Saudi Arabia, which is one of the world’s most highest-spending tourist markets with the expected outbound tourism of US$ 25.49 billion by 2027. 

Ambassador Ameer Ajwad also launched a dedicated Snapchat account named “To Jannat Dunya” in the Arabic language for the promotion of Sri Lanka tourism in Saudi Arabia during the inaugural session. 

Addressing the gathering, Managing Director of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Sampath Nissanka, provided an overview of Sri Lanka tourism and highlighted the recent remarkable boom of the Sri Lanka tourism industry. 

Country Manager for SriLankan Airlines, Thusitha Wickramasinghe, highlighted the unmatched experiences that Sri Lanka offers and emphasized the growing connectivity between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia. 

A networking session between the visiting 20 Sri Lanka’s top Destination Management Companies and their Saudi counterparts took place during the Riyadh roadshow. Over 170 participants, including leading tour operators, travel agents, Saudi social media influencers and media personnel, participated in this event. 

The second Sri Lanka tourism roadshow is scheduled in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia in the city of Al Khobar on 24th April, fostering stronger tourism and trade ties between Sri Lanka and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Asst. Director, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Madusha Perera, and First Secretary of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh, Tashma Vithanawasam, coordinated the event. (Newswire)

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Two young female Sri Lankan athletes have been disqualified from their sprint event due to not arriving on time for the event at the 2025 Asian Youth Athletics Championships held in Saudi Arabia. 

According to the coach of one female athlete, the two sprinters were supposed to report for the women’s U-18 1500 metre event 35 minutes before commencement, but the accompanying authorities had failed to report on time.

“The event was at 6.40. The athletes who had to report at 6.10 for the first call had been brought to the event at 6.20. Therefore, they had been disqualified. A manager, three coaches, and a female officer accompanied the Sri Lankan team. The disqualification has been caused due to their lack of care. They need to take care of all the athletes and not just their students,” he added.

Pointing out that both Sri Lankan athletes, Niduki Prarthana and Ayesha Sewwandi, held a timing of 4 minutes and 41 seconds and 4 minutes and 43 seconds, the coach said they could have easily defeated the Chinese athlete who won the event with a timing of 4 minutes and 58 seconds.

Expressing regret over the loss of two medals for Sri Lanka, the coach and relatives of the two female athletes have called on the authorities to ensure justice for the young sprinters and take necessary action against those responsible for their disqualification. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia celebrated 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2025, by unveiling a special commemorative logo. 

According to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh, to commemorate this historic milestone in bilateral relations, a special commemorative logo was unveiled at a diplomatic reception organized by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh at the Cultural Palace at the Diplomatic Quarters in Riyadh recently (Feb 05). 

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Omar Lebbe Ameer Ajwad, jointly with the Deputy Minister of Protocol Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Abdul Majeed Al- Shammari and the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador Dya Eddine Bamakhrama representing the diplomatic community in Riyadh, unveiled the special logo. 

Special messages exchanged by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka Vijitha Herath and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on the special occasion of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations were also released during the occasion. 

A large number of dignitaries including high-ranking officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as other ministries of Saudi Arabia, Ambassadors of different countries based in Riyadh, members of the Saudi business community, professionals, academia, media personalities and friends of Sri Lanka as well as members of the Sri Lankan community attended the event.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Ameer Ajwad pointed out that although the modern diplomatic relations were established fifty years ago, historic diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka, essentially began in the 7th century AD when the then King of Sri Lanka named Aggabodhi III (623 – 640 AD) dispatched his envoy to Medina Al-Munawwarah on a fact-finding mission at the time of the holy Prophet Mohammed (pbuh). 

The Ambassador also highlighted that the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh initiated a number of activities to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs including a tree planting programme that was held in cooperation with the Riyadh Municipality. The programme, which aligns with the Saudi Green Initiative under its Vision 2030, was conducted with the participation of the Sri Lankan community in Riyadh.

Specially designed coat pins to mark the occasion of the 50th anniversary were also presented to the participants during the event. While the popular Saudi poet Mohammed bin Salem bin Jalban Alkhatani recited an Arabic poem, Sri Lankan children performed a specially composed song on the occasion. (Newswire)

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The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in Saudi Arabia has gifted 50 tons of dates to Sri Lanka. 

The donation was handed over by the Saudi Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Khalid bin Hamoud Alkahtani in the presence of Sri Lanka’s Minister of Religious Affairs Hiniduma Sunil Senavi.

According to the Saudi Embassy, the event was attended by Sri Lankan Ministers, Members of Parliament, Government Officials, and representatives of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka signed the agreement for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia recently (Jan 11) demonstrating the commitment of both governments to enhancing the pilgrimage experience for Sri Lankan Muslims.

The agreement was signed by the Sri Lankan delegation headed by the Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs of Sri Lanka, Dr. Sunil Senevi, and the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Abdulfattah Bin Sulaiman Mashat. 

According to the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah, Minister Senevi is visiting Saudi Arabia at the invitation of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah.

During the bilateral meeting which preceded the signing of the agreement, Minister Senevi emphasized the focus of the Government of Sri Lanka on improving the Hajj experience for its citizens, and shared plans for streamlining Hajj operations in the future, aiming for a smoother and more efficient pilgrimage process.

Minister Senevi is also scheduled to meet with the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Fawzan Alrabiah and engage with Hajj service providers. The delegation will also visit Madinah, holy Prophet’s city, as well as important cultural sites in Jeddah and Madinah. 

Further, the Minister engaged in interactions with the Sri Lankan community in Jeddah. 

The Sri Lankan delegation includes Deputy Minister of National Integration, Muneer Mulaffar, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Saudi Arabia, Ameer Ajwad, Director of the  Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs, M.R.M. Nawas, Acting Consul  General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah, Mafusa Lafir and Hajj Coordinator, Dr. M.N.M. Ahsraff. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lankan Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Omar Lebbe Ameer Ajwad called on the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL), Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, at the MWL office in Riyadh, recently.

According to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh, during the meeting, Dr. Al-Issa recalled his landmark visit to Sri Lanka in 2019 and recollected fruitful engagements with the government of Sri Lanka as well as civil society organizations.

While extending a warm welcome to Ambassador Ameer Ajwad, Dr. Al-Issa also highlighted the historic relations with Sri Lanka which was popularly known as “Serandip” by the ancient Arabs and the Islamic World, and expressed MWL’s eagerness to further enhance cooperation with Sri Lanka.

Responding, Ambassador Ameer Ajwad expressed his sincere appreciation to the generous support extended by the MWL to Sri Lanka over the years and commended its global vital role in promoting mutual understanding among diverse religions and cultures as well as fostering social coexistence, social cohesion, peace and harmony with a view to maintaining unity in diversity. 

Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa is widely recognized as a leading global voice of moderate Islam, committed to creating global awareness of the religion’s true message of empathy, understanding and cooperation among all people. 

Dr. Al-Issa has been a trailblazer in building new partnerships among different communities, faiths and nations. He also heads the Intellectual Warfare Center, a body affiliated with the Saudi Defense Ministry dedicated to combatting extremist and terrorist ideology. Dr. Al-Issa received the Order of Peace award in 2019 from the then President of Sri Lanka for his efforts in promoting peace among followers of religions. (Newswire)

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