SLBC Hosts Welcome Reception for New Sri Lankan Ambassador to UAE

The Sri Lanka Business Council (SLBC) in the UAE held a warm welcome reception at Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre for Professor Arusha Cooray, Sri Lanka’s newly appointed Ambassador to the UAE.

She was accompanied by her husband, Priyantha Cooray.

The event began with traditional Sri Lankan drums and cultural performances. Guests included members of the Sri Lankan business community, Consul General Alexis Gunasekara, members of the diplomatic corps, and other dignitaries.

SLBC Chairman Suren Swaminathan delivered the welcome address. Reflecting on his time in the UAE, he recalled the late Ambassador Gauthamadasa as “a fine diplomat and a friend to all.” He noted, to appreciative applause, that “some ambassadors came to serve, and others, quite frankly, came to be served.” He welcomed Professor Cooray as a trailblazer — the first female Sri Lankan Ambassador to the Gulf region — and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting trade and collaboration.

Consul General Alexis Gunasekara praised the Ambassador’s academic and diplomatic background. He called for deeper trade ties and continued cooperation.

In her remarks, Professor Cooray thanked the SLBC leadership and emphasised the Council’s role in building economic bridges. She pledged close cooperation to promote trade, tourism, and investment between Sri Lanka and the UAE.

Vice Chairman Shihan Sheriff delivered the vote of thanks, recognising the team’s effort in organising the event in just one week.

The evening concluded with a cake cutting ceremony. Chairman Swaminathan then introduced the Ambassador to each guest in the room.

A special thanks was extended to Dr. Nishan Silva and the Accor Hotels team for their exceptional hospitality.

The event was compered by Lakna Godahena and Kasun Segera.

This evening marked the beginning of what promises to be a constructive chapter in Sri Lanka-UAE relations.