The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Brussels, in partnership with the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), organized a Sri Lankan cultural evening at the EESC premises, celebrating the longstanding EU–Sri Lanka partnership, including cultural and people-to-people ties. The event also recognized the important role played by EU institutions in strengthening EU–Sri Lanka relations since 1962.

The event brought together approximately 200 high-level attendees, including officials from EU institutions working closely with Sri Lanka and members of the diplomatic corps.

In his remarks, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU, Chandana Weerasena, reflected on key milestones in EU–Sri Lanka relations. He highlighted the EU’s role as a vital partner in economic cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP+), and tourism, noting that the EU region accounted for approximately 25% of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka. Ambassador Weerasena, emphasized that Sri Lanka was actively exploring ways to further strengthen these ties, adding that cultural diplomacy provided an innovative bridge for expanding future cooperation.

Representing the host institution, Vice-President for Communication of the EESC, Marija Hanževački, underscored the importance of cultural exchange in international relations. She noted that international relations were built not only through political diplomacy, trade and economic cooperation, but also through people-to-people encounters. She added that culture had a unique ability to bring people together, build mutual trust and pave the way for broader partnerships.

The highlight of the evening was a captivating performance by the France-based Tisaravi Dance Foundation. The ensemble presented ten traditional Sri Lankan dance items, enchanting the audience with live performances accompanied by traditional music.

Following the cultural performances, guests joined a networking reception featuring traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and Ceylon tea. The venue, decorated in vibrant Sri Lankan cultural style and featuring a wide array of tourism promotional materials, attracted considerable attention.

The event was jointly hosted and sponsored by the European Economic and Social Committee, with additional support from Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Belgium, Monique de Decker.

Embassy of Sri Lanka
Brussels

28 September 2026