Marking a significant milestone in maritime diplomacy, the Republic of Korea Navy’s 44th Escort Task Group (ETG), led by the warship ROKS Kang Gam Chan, made a ceremonial port call at Colombo Port on April 22, 2025. The visit underscored the strengthening of naval ties and regional cooperation between Korea and Sri Lanka.

At the heart of the visit was a strong message of strategic collaboration and regional security. Captain Kwon Yong Gu, Commanding Officer of ROKS Kang Gam Chan and Commander of the 44th ETG, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception extended by Sri Lanka. In his address, Captain Kwon highlighted the mission of the ETG and its vital role in enhancing maritime stability.

“This visit is not only a symbol of our enduring friendship with Sri Lanka, but also a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to regional peace and stability,” said Captain Kwon.

“The 44th ETG plays a pivotal role in promoting maritime security and ensuring freedom of navigation across critical waterways, a mission that resonates with the broader goals of the international community,” he stated.

The port call was the second by a Republic of Korea Navy ship in Sri Lanka in less than two years, reflecting the growing importance of naval cooperation between the two countries. The ETG, deployed regularly to high-risk zones including the Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Oman, conducts operations that combat piracy and safeguard global shipping routes.

Korean Ambassador Miyon Lee also emphasised the diplomatic dimension of the visit, noting that such exchanges serve as meaningful platforms to deepen bilateral relations. “This is not just a naval visit—it is a testament to the close ties Korea shares with Sri Lanka, both strategically and culturally,” she said.

In a celebration of cultural diplomacy, the Korean Embassy and the 44th ETG jointly hosted a K-culture event aboard the ship. Sri Lankan naval officers and local guests were treated to Korean delicacies, a Taekwondo demonstration, and a K-pop performance, showcasing Korea’s rich cultural heritage and fostering mutual understanding.

As ROKS Kang Gam Chan continues its mission in the Indian Ocean region, its port call in Colombo stands as a reminder of the increasing importance of cooperative maritime partnerships in securing global peace and prosperity.

Demonstrating the strength of talent, perseverance, and a thriving sports culture across its diverse subsidiaries, LOLC Holdings PLC delivered an exceptional performance at the 41st Mercantile Badminton Association (MBA) Novices Badminton Championship 2025. Held at the MBA Indoor Courts in Colombo from 22nd to 30th of March 2025, the championship attracted over 400 players from 52 distinguished corporates across Sri Lanka, making it one of the most competitive inter-organizational sporting events of the year.

Among the standout achievements was the Women’s Doubles Championship in the Open Category, won by Chamali Botheju of LOLC Finance and Keshini Devindi from Browns IT. The Veteran Mixed Doubles title was claimed by Sanjeewa Kularathna and Gayani Neranjala Senarathne, both representing LOLC Finance. In the Masters Over-50 Men’s Doubles category, Suresh Perera from LOLC Factors and Jayakodi Arachchige Palitha from Browns Plantations earned the position of runners-up. Adding to the accolades, Gayani Neranjala Senarathne also secured third place in the Veteran Women’s Singles, further reinforcing the depth of talent within the team.

The Group’s support for sporting excellence is strategic. By encouraging a culture that balances performance with personal passion, LOLC Holdings endorses its commitment to holistic employee well-being. The presence of a competitive yet collaborative sports culture within the Group allows employees to thrive, build camaraderie, and develop leadership and resilience in a unique setting.

To honour the victorious team, Group Managing Director, Mr. Kapila Jayawardena, together with the Group Chief Human Resource Officer, Mr. Pradeep Uluwaduge, met with all the winners along with the team’s captain, Shashika Perera encouraging sports and wellness across its Group companies.

Speaking on the significance of the achievement, Mr. Pradeep Uluwaduge stated, “This victory represents more than trophies for us, it reflects the spirit of unity, resilience, and potential that exists within our people. At LOLC, we are committed to building a workplace where personal passions are encouraged, and hidden talents are brought to light. By supporting our team members to compete on national platforms like this, we ensure that every individual has the chance to thrive, not just professionally, but personally too.”

LOLC Holdings remains steadfast in its vision of empowering its workforce through strategic investments in people-centric initiatives, especially those that promote wellness, teamwork, and personal growth. With such momentum, the Group looks forward to nurturing even more champions in the years to come, both on and off the field.

Omar Lebbe Ameer Ajwad, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and Mohammed Munzir, Corporate Relationship Manager at Aljabr Finance Company, met at the Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh to discuss strengthening bilateral trade and entrepreneurship development between the two nations.

The discussions centered on advancing Sri Lankan entrepreneurship, addressing key challenges, and exploring new business opportunities. A major outcome of the meeting was the agreement to establish the Sri Lankan Business Forum in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Region, a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to empower Sri Lankan entrepreneurs, support startups, and create employment opportunities for the Sri Lankan community in the region. This collaboration marks a significant step in deepening economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia.