ISLAMABAD : Silk Route Enterprises, with the support of the Government of Pakistan, organised the second edition of the Silk Route Festival 2026 in Islamabad from 24 to 25 October 2026, bringing together representatives of the diplomatic community, business sector, government institutions and the public to promote regional cooperation and cultural exchange.
The two-day festival featured panel discussions on collaboration in tourism, culture and people-to-people contacts, traditional cuisine showcases and visits to historical and heritage sites. The event provided a platform to strengthen regional ties, foster cultural understanding and promote tourism among participating countries.
At the invitation of the organisers, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, Rear Admiral Fred Senevirathne, attended the plenary session as a Guest of Honour and participated as a panellist in the Pakistan Cultural Diplomacy Dialogue. Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Suranjith Wewita, and Deputy Director General of the Authority, Krishantha Bopage, also participated as keynote speakers. The Sri Lanka High Commission in Islamabad organised a dedicated Sri Lankan stall showcasing the country’s rich cultural and culinary heritage, along with video presentations and promotional materials highlighting its diverse tourism attractions and destinations. The stall attracted visitors and provided an opportunity to promote Sri Lanka as an attractive destination for tourism and cultural experiences.
The festival was attended by members of the diplomatic community, business representatives, senior government officials and other distinguished guests, providing opportunities for engagement, networking and closer regional cooperation.
Sri Lanka’s participation in the Silk Route Festival 2026 reaffirmed the commitment of the Sri Lanka High Commission to strengthening Sri Lanka-Pakistan relations and promoting tourism, cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections between the two countries.
