The event was graced by over 100 guests, including the Chairman of the Penthol Group of Companies Faruk Eroc, the first Turkish Ambassador to Sri Lanka Iskender Okyay, representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, diplomats, Honorary Consuls, members of the business community, academics and well-wishers.

The evening commenced with the lighting of the traditional Sri Lankan oil lamp. A detailed presentation was delivered by the Ambassador introducing the new Honorary Consul, and explaining his responsibilities, and consular jurisdiction. The Ambassador also highlighted Sri Lanka’s history, post-independent developments, and the strong bonds of friendship between the two countries particularly since the Ottoman times. She concluded the presentation emphasizing Sri Lanka’s increasing popularity as a tourist destination among travelers across the world, including Turkish travelers. Further, she referred to Sri Lanka’s Colombo Port which has been globally ranked as the fastest growing port in quarter 1 - 2024 by Alphaliner.

Accepting the Letter of Commission, Mr. Özü elaborated on the long-standing history of relations between Türkiye and Sri Lanka and undertook to further develop relations between the two countries and protect the interests of Sri Lankan citizens visiting and/ or living in Türkiye for various purposes.