Sri Lanka’s Ambassador Meets SLAIS to Discuss Future Initiatives

Stockholm, March 28, 2025 – A delegation from the Sri Lanka Association in Sweden (SLAIS) met with His Excellency Kapila Fonseka, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Sweden, in Stockholm today to discuss future collaborations, community initiatives, and the upcoming Bakmaha Ulela 2025. The meeting was an opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen ties, and formally invite the Ambassador to the highly anticipated cultural event.

The discussion focused on SLAIS’s mission to better connect the Sri Lankan community in Sweden across all demographics, including youth, middle-aged, and elderly individuals, as well as both newcomers and long-time residents. The Ambassador emphasized the importance of inclusivity, particularly in uniting the Sinhala and Tamil communities under one platform. SLAIS reaffirmed its commitment to fostering harmony and ensuring that all Sri Lankans in Sweden feel welcomed and represented.

Enhancing Digital Presence and Community Resources

The delegation also introduced the recently launched SLAIS website (slais.org), which serves as a central hub for news, events, and essential information. The website marks a significant milestone by offering digital event tickets for the first time, streamlining access to SLAIS activities.

Additionally, SLAIS is expanding its online resources to include:

• A community directory listing Sri Lankan Buddhist temples, kovils, churches, and other religious institutions, as well as businesses, including restaurants, small businesses, and other types Sri Lankan-owned enterprises.

• A newcomer introduction guide providing essential information on settling in Sweden, including obtaining a driver’s license, finding housing and apartments, understanding healthcare services, navigating the job market, and accessing government services.

• Swedish language courses available via YouTube and other platforms to help Sri Lankans integrate more smoothly into Swedish society.

  
  

Strengthening Business and Investment Opportunities

The Ambassador proposed an initiative to engage Sri Lankan business investors and encourage them to start projects or contribute financially to Sri Lanka’s economic development. SLAIS welcomed this idea and expressed its readiness to facilitate connections between business owners and investment opportunities.

Improving Communication and Embassy Support

Another key point of discussion was the importance of enhancing communication between the Sri Lankan community and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Sweden. Many Sri Lankans face challenges related to visas and other consular matters, and SLAIS plans to use its social media platforms to disseminate critical embassy updates efficiently.

His Excellency Kapila Fonseka assured SLAIS of his full support in its efforts to strengthen the Sri Lankan community in Sweden. In turn, SLAIS reaffirmed its dedication to working closely with the embassy to support Sri Lankans living in Sweden and foster a strong sense of unity.

This meeting marks a significant step in SLAIS’s ongoing mission to build a well-connected and supportive Sri Lankan community in Sweden. With the Ambassador’s backing and the association’s growing digital presence, the future looks promising for Sri Lankans seeking guidance, community engagement, and cultural preservation in Sweden.