Diplomats gather in Colombo for Hail and Farewell Reception 2026

Colombo, June 12 (Daily Mirror) - Ambassador of Indonesia to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Dewi Gustina Tobing, in her capacity as Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, hosted the annual Hail and Farewell Diplomatic Reception 2026 in Colombo, bringing together Heads of Mission and their spouses accredited to Sri Lanka.

The event served as a platform to strengthen friendship, cooperation, and solidarity within the diplomatic community, while celebrating the contributions of diplomats completing their assignments and welcoming newly appointed envoys.

The reception honored several outgoing Heads of Mission for their service and contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and international cooperation in Sri Lanka. Those recognized included Ambassador Lee Miyon of the Republic of Korea, Ambassador Dr. Siri Walt of Switzerland, High Commissioner Andalib Elias of Bangladesh, Ambassador Dr. Purna Bahadur Nepali of Nepal, and Chargé d’Affaires Anmar Abdulmunem Abdullah Al-Enim of Iraq.

The diplomatic community also extended a warm welcome to newly arrived Heads of Mission, including Archbishop Andrzej Józwowicz, Ambassador of the Holy See; Major General (Retd) Nayyar Naseer, High Commissioner of Pakistan; and Saleh M.A.S. Al-Sarawi, Ambassador of Kuwait.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Dewi highlighted the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relations and fostering closer cooperation among missions accredited to Sri Lanka. She emphasized the role of the diplomatic community in promoting mutual understanding, supporting development efforts, and building bridges between nations.

The evening concluded with a showcase of authentic Indonesian cuisine, offering guests a taste of the country’s rich culinary heritage and cultural diversity.