Deputy Defence Minister Attends Saudi Arabia’s Founding Day Celebration
February 21, 2026The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Sri Lanka hosted a grand reception celebrating 298 years of history since 1727, at the ITC Ratnadeepa Hotel, Colombo yesterday (20 Feb).
The event was graced by Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Minister of Health and Mass Media, as the Chief Guest. Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), attended as a Guest of Honour, symbolizing the continued commitment to the strong and friendly relations between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia.
Upon their arrival, the dignitaries were warmly welcomed by His Excellency Khalid bin Hamoud Al-Qahtani, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Sri Lanka.
In his welcome address, the Ambassador underscored the enduring bilateral relationship between the two nations, highlighting a trajectory of growing cooperation across key sectors. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to deepening ties with Sri Lanka by expanding diplomatic, economic, and cultural collaboration.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Jayatissa commemorated the 51 year milestone of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka, a partnership rooted in 1974. He noted that over the past five decades, the two nations have built a robust foundation through trade, employment, and cultural exchange. Looking forward, he underscored the vital importance of sustaining and evolving these mutually beneficial ties for future generations.
The ceremony brought together a distinguished gathering, including Ambassadors, Ministers of parliament, members of the diplomatic corps and other high level dignitaries.
