The Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka together with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) launched two commemorative landmark publications namely “Sri Lanka: Resilient Heritage” authored by Ambassador Dato Dr Ananda Kumarasiri, and, “From Europa to Taprobana” authored by Dr. Zameer Careem at the Embassy on 26 June 2023. The two publications were undertaken in conjunction with the commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence.
In delivering the opening remarks, Ambassador and Permanent Representative Majintha Jayesinghe expressed his appreciation to both authors. He underlined that these books notably capture the underlining essence of Sri Lanka’s resilience as a nation by tracing its rich history, civilization and culture. He went on to state that it offers insights into an array of remarkable achievements and unique features of Sri Lanka that has earned the reputation of the island for ages as being “a land like no other”. Ambassador Majintha Jayesinghe expressed the aspirations that both these books will present an insightful account of the rich heritage of Sri Lanka’s relations with Austria as well as with the rest of Europe. He hoped that the two commemorative publications would encourage future generations to look at the shared history and relations with pride and motivate them to further enhance this unique friendship and goodwill to a higher vistas of achievements.
In his speech Ambassador Alexander Ehrlich-Adam of the Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs of Austria said the launching of these two publications marks a remarkable milestone in the special relations between Sri Lanka and Austria.
Most Venerable Dr. Wijayarajapura Seelawansa Thera of the Dhammazentrum Nyanaponika Vienna, in his brief remarks recalled the historic relations between the two countries. Venerable Thero expressed hope that these publications will further strengthen the close bonds of friendship.
The author of the book, “Sri Lanka: Resilient Heritage, Ambassador Dato Dr. Ananda Kumarasiri, traced Sri Lanka’s rich historic relations with Austria and Europe. He expressed confidence that this book serves as a strong foundation for further enhancing both bilateral and multilateral relations in all fields of endeavour.
Author of the book “From Europa to Taprobana”, Dr Zameer Careem, stated that his book encapsulates the history of Sri Lanka’s special relations with Austria and Centra and South East Europe. He expressed confidence that this historical foundation will assist to further expand and strengthen relations in the years ahead.
The commemorative event was attended by a large gathering including officials of the Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs of Austria, Diplomatic Corp., Honorary Consuls of Sri Lanka in Austria and accredited countries, travel agents and tour operators, travel writers and bloggers, academic, representatives of universities and museums, Sri Lankan expatriate community, print and electronic media.
As customarily practiced Sri Lankan traditional food and world renowned Ceylon tea were served.
