The Sri Lanka Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai was inaugurated on October 1 with a ceremony featuring Magul Bera song and a Kandyan Dance performance enveloped by traditional dance costumes followed by the national anthem and lighting of the lamp. 

 

The keynote address was delivered by the Sri Lankan Consul General to Dubai & Northern Emirates and the Deputy Commissioner General for Expo Nalinda Wijerathna. 

 

Located in the 'Opportunity' district, the 300 sq m pavilion brings the planning principles of the ancient civilization to life, focusing on the island’s three pillars Authenticity, Compactness and Diversity. Visitors can immerse in an experience inspired by water – emphasising the value of adaptability and agility, the will to transform challenges into opportunities. 

 

Visitors can enjoy a fresh cup of Ceylon tea courtesy of the Sri Lankan Tea Board, while the retail space facilitated by the Export Development Board boasts an array of produce ranging from spices to Batik clothing. 

 

Consul General Wijerathna said: “Sri Lanka has a rich maritime history with shipping, trade and cultural links. Inspired by an aquatic theme, the pavilion creates a warm and welcoming space for visitors and highlights its potential as a delightful destination in the world.”

 

With 350 waterfalls, more than 25,000 water bodies and 103 rivers, 33 per cent of the island is forest area. It has 26 National Parks and 8 UNESCO declared heritage sites. 

 

Sri Lanka Tourism Chairperson and Commissioner General for Expo Kimarli Fernando said: “Post Covid travellers are looking for tranquility, peace, serenity and healing and Sri Lanka is well positioned to offer visitors all these. A walk in our mountains, a dip in our nature’s ponds, a glimpse through our history and culture will create a lasting memory.” 

 

The Sri Lanka pavilion will host a range of events including a fashion show featuring traditional batik designs, a wedding show, a cultural dance show, a drum festival plus a children’s storytelling session featuring work by children’s books author Late Sybil Wettasinghe.-TradeArabia News Service