RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMBO — Dewi Gustina Tobing, Ambassador of the Indonesia to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, in her capacity as Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, hosted the annual Hail and Farewell Diplomatic Reception 2026 for Heads of Mission and their spouses accredited to Sri Lanka recently.
The event brought together members of the diplomatic community in a spirit of friendship, cooperation, and solidarity, reaffirming the strong bonds that unite diplomatic missions serving in Sri Lanka.
The reception paid tribute to distinguished Heads of Mission who are concluding their diplomatic assignments in Sri Lanka, namely H.E. Lee Miyon, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea; H.E. Dr. Siri Walt, Ambassador of Switzerland; H.E. Andalib Elias, High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh; H.E. Dr. Purna Bahadur Nepali, Ambassador of Nepal; and Mr. Anmar Abdulmunem Abdullah Al-Enim, Chargé d’Affaires of the Republic of Iraq. Their valuable contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and fostering international cooperation in Sri Lanka were warmly acknowledged by fellow diplomats.
The diplomatic community also extended a warm welcome to newly arrived Heads of Mission: H.E. Archbishop Andrzej Józwowicz, Ambassador of the Holy See; H.E. Major General (Retd) Nayyar Naseer, High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan; and H.E. Saleh M.A.S. Al-Sarawi, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait.
Speaking at the reception, Ambassador Dewi emphasized the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic ties and fostering closer cooperation among missions accredited to Sri Lanka. She noted that the diplomatic community plays an important role in promoting mutual understanding, supporting development initiatives, and building bridges between nations.
The evening concluded in a warm and convivial atmosphere, featuring authentic Indonesian cuisine that showcased the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia. Guests enjoyed a selection of traditional dishes representing the diversity and hospitality of the Indonesian archipelago, adding a cultural dimension to the celebration.
The Hail and Farewell Reception remains one of the key annual gatherings of the diplomatic community in Sri Lanka, reflecting the values of friendship, mutual respect, and international cooperation that underpin diplomatic relations.
