- Professor Arusha Cooray makes history as the first female Ambassador from Sri Lanka to the Gulf region
| Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Professor Arusha Cooray |
| Sri Lanka’s Consul General Alexis Gunasekara |
The Sri Lanka Business Council (SLBC) organized a sophisticated welcome reception at Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre to celebrate the appointment of Professor Arusha Cooray as Sri Lanka’s new Ambassador to the UAE.
Accompanied by her husband, Priyantha Cooray, the event radiated warmth and hospitality.
The evening began with vibrant traditional Sri Lankan drumming and cultural displays that created a festive atmosphere. Attendees included members of the Sri Lankan business community, the Consul General Alexis Gunasekara, members of the diplomatic corps, and other esteemed guests.
During his opening remarks, SLBC Chairman Suren Swaminathan shared a touching and memorable welcome speech. He reflected on his long tenure in the UAE, dating back to the early days of diplomatic relations, and fondly remembered Sri Lanka’s late Ambassador Gauthamadasa as “an exceptional diplomat and a friend to everyone.” He noted with appreciation that “many ambassadors have walked through these doors over the years—some dedicated to serving, while others seemed more focused on personal benefit.”
Swaminathan warmly acknowledged the Ambassador’s groundbreaking role as the first female representative from Sri Lanka to the Gulf region. He emphasized the long-standing partnership between SLBC, the Embassy, and the Consulate, reiterating the Council’s commitment to serving its members and enhancing the nation’s prospects. He also expressed gratitude to Alexis Gunasekara for leading a significant business delegation to Sri Lanka two years ago and recognized the efforts of former Chargé d’Affaires Thakshila Arnolda for her service.
| SLBC Chairman Suren Swaminathan |
| SLBC Vice Chairman Shihan Sheriff |
Consul General Alexis Gunasekara followed the Chairman’s address with his own remarks, highlighting the Ambassador’s distinguished academic and diplomatic background. He underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration to strengthen trade and bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and the UAE.
In her address, Professor Arusha Cooray expressed her gratitude to the Chairman and Board of Directors for the warm welcome. She emphasized the crucial role of the SLBC in promoting economic connectivity and committed to collaborating closely with the Council to boost trade, tourism, and imports. Her comments conveyed a clear vision and determination for the future of Sri Lanka-UAE relations.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Vice Chairman Shihan Sheriff, who praised the organizing committee for successfully creating a remarkable event in just one week—a true reflection of the SLBC team’s dedication and cohesion.
The evening featured a ceremonial cake cutting, after which Chairman Swaminathan personally introduced the Ambassador to VIP guests at each table.
Special appreciation was extended to Dr. Nishan Silva, Regional General Manager for Accor Hotels, whose team provided exceptional hospitality at Pullman Creek City Centre.
The event was skillfully moderated by Lakna Godahena and Kasun Segera, whose professionalism added to the evening’s success.
This reception signifies a promising beginning for a collaborative and fruitful chapter in Sri Lanka-UAE diplomatic and economic relations.