Sri Lanka has requested the return of six more historical artefacts from the Netherlands under the second phase of the cultural restitution process, as the two countries mark 75 years of diplomatic relations.
The request was highlighted by Deputy Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando while addressing the National Day Reception of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, held in Colombo yesterday (22).
Sri Lanka previously received six historical artefacts from the Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands in December 2023, following collaborative research into their origins.
The returned artefacts included a golden kasthana, a silver kasthana, a golden knife, two Mahathuwakku (wall guns) and Lewke Disave’s cannon.
Originating from the Kandyan Kingdom and acquired during the colonial period, the artefacts hold significant historical and cultural value for Sri Lanka.
Deputy Minister Fernando noted that their return reflected a shared commitment to mutual respect, reconciliation and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, highlighting tourism ties between the two countries, he said Sri Lanka welcomed 2,362,521 international tourists in 2025, marking a 15.1% increase compared to the previous year.
The Netherlands ranked ninth among Sri Lanka’s tourism source markets, with 64,164 Dutch tourists visiting the country during the year.
Deputy Minister Fernando also highlighted the longstanding relationship between Sri Lanka and the Netherlands, noting that although ties date back more than four centuries, formal diplomatic relations were established in 1951.
Over the past 75 years, bilateral cooperation has expanded across trade, investment, development, education, tourism, culture and maritime affairs.
He further identified sustainable maritime development, ocean governance, maritime security, port development and the blue economy as key areas for future cooperation.
The Netherlands has also supported Sri Lanka in agriculture, fisheries, rural development, water supply, healthcare, disaster management and food security.
Deputy Minister Fernando noted that Sri Lanka’s recognition as a country of strategic focus under the Netherlands’ International Cultural Policy for 2025–2028 would further strengthen cultural cooperation.
He also referred to the Second Round of Political Consultations held in The Hague in October 2025 and discussions between the Foreign Ministers of the two countries as important steps towards expanding bilateral relations.
Anil Jayantha Fernando reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Netherlands and exploring new opportunities for cooperation as the two countries commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations. (Newswire)