RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMBO – Members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Sri Lanka commemorated the International Diplomat Day 2026 on Saturday October 24, at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Colombo.
The event brought together more than 150 participants representing over 21 diplomatic missions, the United Nations, and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, along with family members and other distinguished guests. The gathering reflected the diplomatic community’s shared commitment to fostering friendship, solidarity, and international cooperation.
The event was attended by ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of diplomatic missions, members of the diplomatic community, and representatives of the Sri Lankan government. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka, attended as the Chief Guest. Representatives of the United Nations were also present.
In her remarks, Dewi Gustina Tobing, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Sri Lanka, paid tribute to the dedication and sacrifices of diplomats, whose responsibilities often require them to work far from their home countries and families. She underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing increasingly complex global challenges, including climate change, armed conflicts, inequality, and rapid technological developments.
She also expressed her appreciation for the spirit of friendship, solidarity, and mutual support within the diplomatic community in Sri Lanka, highlighting the importance of the United Nations as a platform for dialogue and collective action. As a tangible expression of goodwill, she announced a charitable initiative by the Diplomatic Corps to provide essential supplies to local communities in Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, Marc-André Franche, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, underscored the importance of the United Nations Charter, international law, and a rules-based international order in maintaining global peace, security, and cooperation. He highlighted that respect for international rules, and the sovereignty of nations is essential to preventing conflict, strengthening trust, and ensuring a more peaceful and just world. He further emphasized that all countries share a responsibility to uphold these principles through international cooperation and solidarity.
Vijitha Herath in his remarks, emphasized the importance of friendship, peace, cooperation, and mutual understanding among nations. He highlighted the longstanding relationships between countries represented in Sri Lanka, built on shared values, cultural ties, and a commitment to constructive engagement, diversity, democracy, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. He also acknowledged the contributions of ambassadors and their families in strengthening diplomatic relations and fostering closer ties among nations, expressing his hope that the gathering would create lasting memories and further strengthen bonds of friendship.
The celebration featured various sporting competitions, including mini soccer, badminton, volleyball, tennis, table tennis, chess, and dominoes, alongside traditional Sri Lankan games,
