The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism is deeply saddened by the passing of Ms. Manel Abeysekera, a distinguished Sri Lankan diplomat who made history as the first woman career diplomat in the Sri Lanka Foreign Service.

Ms. Manel Abeysekera made history in 1958 as Sri Lanka’s first woman career diplomat, paving the way for generations of women to serve the country in the field of diplomacy. During her career, she served in several important capacities, including as Chief of Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Thailand and Germany.

Her pioneering contribution to the Sri Lanka Foreign Service and her dedicated service to the country will be remembered with profound respect and appreciation.

The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this time of profound sorrow.

May her soul rest in peace.