Sri Lanka and Thailand to Strengthen Labour Cooperation with Signing of Landmark Agreements
Sri Lanka and Thailand further strengthened bilateral cooperation in the field of labour with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Labour Cooperation and a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on the Employment of Sri Lankan Workers in Thailand today, 14 September 2026, in Bangkok.
“Gem Sri Lanka 2027” Launch Strengthens Sri Lanka – Thailand Gem and Jewellery Cooperation
The Gem Sri Lanka 2027 was unveiled in Bangkok on 06 September 2026, bringing together key stakeholders to promote Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry ahead of its fourth edition in January 2027. The launch was organised by the Ceylon Gem & Jewellery Traders Association (CGJTA).
The Sri Lanka Army cultural troupe led by Cpt. AjithRuwanpura, comprising of 7 performers; Ms. AnushiErandika, Ms. NisansalaDilhani, Mr. PreethiViraj, Mr. Udaya Kumara, Mr. Lasantha Kumara, Ms. MalkaDileshi and Ms. DiliniErandikademonstratedvibrant and colourful dances based on the traditional Kandyan (up country), low Country dance forms, drum beats and traditional vocals and melodies.
Welcoming the gathering Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Thailand Mrs. Samantha K. Jayasuriya said that according to the historical records, Sri Lankan dancing and drumming has been practiced at least for 800 year. There had approximately 35 types of drums been used in Sri Lanka,and the ‘Waves of Rhythm’ performances included the traditional ceremonial drums- called ‘Hevisi’, which is used in the Temple of the Scared Tooth Relic, two popular ‘Wannams’- depicting the majestic movements of the Elephant, called ‘GajagaWannama’, and the flamboyant characters of the peacock, called the ‘MayuraWannama’. Displaying the acrobatic prowess and vibrancy, the performers brought to the stage the traditional dance forms ‘Ves’,and the costumes depict the god of Sun, and ‘Thelme’, isa pure classical and rhythmical dance from the low country, entertaining the audience. Invoking the blessings of the Triple Gem and the benevolent spirits over the audience, the cosmic performance ‘SaluPalia’ -a low country ritualistic dance form engaged the entire audience. The culmination of the event was the drum orchestration that showcased the skills of the performers on five main types of drums along with the bells and flutes.
The event was graced by the diplomatic corps in Bangkok, media, well wishers, university students, Thai and Sri Lankan communitywhere they were able to get some insight of Sri Lanka as a ‘must visit’ travel destination.Videos on Sri Lankan popular travel destinations and hotels were played during the event and brochures from Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) to raise awareness on Sri Lanka. The participants also joined for a reception that gave a taste of Sri Lanka with its world famous ‘Ceylon Tea’ and Sri Lankan snacks.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Bangkok
20 January 2020
