Bids farewell to Ambassador...

Ven. Maha Sangha representing Buddhist temples in the greater DMV area and California jointly hosted a farewell ceremony on 11 July 2026 at the Washington Buddhist Vihara, honouring Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe for his dedicated service, support to Sri Lankan religious institutions and the Sri Lankan community, and efforts to strengthen Sri Lanka–US relations.

The ceremony, attended by 16 Buddhist monks, members of the Sri Lankan community and well-wishers, featured tributes highlighting the Ambassador’s contributions to diplomacy, community service and the promotion of Buddhist values.

Chief Incumbent of the Washington Buddhist Vihara, the first Theravada Buddhist temple in the United States, Ven. Maharagama Dhammasiri Thero, praised Ambassador Samarasinghe’s exemplary service and noted that this was the first occasion where Ven. Maha Sangha from the DMV region and beyond came together to felicitate an outgoing Sri Lankan Ambassador to the United States.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Samarasinghe reflected on his tenure in Washington D.C., the challenges faced, and expressed gratitude for the support extended by the Maha Sangha and the Sri Lankan community. He reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the motherland.