Colombo: The French National Day, also known as Fête nationale or Bastille Day, was celebrated at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo yesterday, bringing together senior Sri Lankan officials and diplomats. This event underscored the strong and lasting ties between Sri Lanka and France.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) and Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), were among the distinguished guests who attended the celebration. The event was graced by the presence of the Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe, who served as the Chief Guest.

The French Ambassador to Sri Lanka, H.E. Jean-François Pactet, warmly welcomed the attendees, setting the tone for an evening dedicated to celebrating France’s significant historical day while also highlighting the spirit of friendship and mutual respect shared between the two nations.

The event concluded with cultu
ral exchanges and networking among dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, and invited guests. This gathering highlighted the vibrant diplomatic relationship that continues to thrive between Sri Lanka and France.