Bangkok: The High Commission of Sri Lanka in London, in collaboration with the Darwin College Tea Society of Cambridge University and the International Tea Committee (ITC) in the UK, hosted a Ceylon tea tasting and awareness session at Darwin Hall, Darwin College. The event, held under the theme ‘Travel with Tea’, was part of the annual cultural promotion activities organized by the tea society.

According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Sri Lanka, the event was coordinated by Agustina Villalba, President of the Darwin College Tea Society, and Treasurer Kui Li. They worked alongside Somasena Mahadiulwewa, Minister (Commercial) of the High Commission of Sri Lanka, and Suranga James Perera, Executive Director of the ITC-UK. Mr. Perera, who has extensive experience in the Ceylon tea industry, led the tasting session for about 35 participants, primarily post-graduate students from Cambridge University.

The event featured a presentation by Mr. Perera, showcasing Ceylon tea videos from the Sri Lanka Tea Board, and offered four specialty Ceylon teas paired with Sri Lankan ginger cookies and other treats. Attendees learned about the history, diversity, and economic significance of Ceylon tea, as well as its cultural relevance and health benefits. The session facilitated engaging discussions on professional tea brewing techniques and the unique characteristics of each tea variety. Participants from various international backgrounds found the session to be an enlightening experience.