COLOMBO : The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism hosted a Media Networking Reception for journalists and media professionals on 20 February 2026 at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo, with the participation of over 175 invitees representing local and international media institutions.
The event was organised to recognise and appreciate the continued cooperation and professional support extended by the media in communicating Sri Lanka’s key national priorities and the Ministry’s work in the areas of foreign affairs, foreign employment and tourism.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism, Vijitha Herath, highlighted the Government’s commitment to advancing the national vision articulated in the policy framework “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life,” under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Disanayaka. The Minister noted that the country’s progress and global standing are strengthened through transparent public communication and the constructive role played by responsible media.
The Minister further stated that Sri Lanka recorded significant achievements in 2025, including tourism arrivals reaching 2.36 million, generating USD 3.2 billion, and migrant worker remittances exceeding USD 7.8 billion. The combined earnings from tourism and remittances amounted to approximately USD 11 billion, reflecting the contribution of the Ministry’s diplomatic engagement, policy initiatives, and institutional reforms.
The Minister also emphasised that the media remains a key partner in shaping Sri Lanka’s international image and strengthening public trust through accurate and timely reporting. Looking ahead, the Minister underscored the importance of continued collaboration in support of upcoming national initiatives, including Sri Lanka Expo 2026, which is expected to be a major platform to showcase the country’s potential in trade, investment, tourism and innovation.
Welcoming the journalists, a senior official from the ministry, outlined the Ministry’s vision to strengthen public diplomacy and digital diplomacy through an integrated digital and AI-enabled communication framework, including a unified web platform linking Sri Lanka Missions abroad, to enhance transparency, accessibility and service delivery.
Senior officials from the President’s Media Division, Prime Minister’s Media Division, Government Information Department and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism also participated in the reception.
