By Sujeeva Nivunhella reporting from London

High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom, Rohitha Bogollagama, presented his Letter of Credence to King Charles III, at a ceremonial event held at Buckingham Palace. The event marked a significant diplomatic occasion, featuring High Commissioner Bogollagama and his spouse, Deepthi Bogollagama, arriving in traditional horse carriages escorted by the Royal Mews.

Bogollagama conveyed warm greetings from President Ranil Wickremesinghe to the King, extending best wishes for the monarch’s health and well-being. During the audience, Bogollagama highlighted the longstanding bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom, which have flourished for over seven decades. The discussions also included Sri Lanka’s active role within the Commonwealth and the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa this October. Additionally, on behalf of President Wickremesinghe, Bogollagama invited King Charles III to visit Sri Lanka.

As a gesture of goodwill, the High Commissioner presented the King with a special selection of James Taylor Premium Ceylon Tea, symbolising its historic connection to the UK. The ceremony was attended by Sir Philip Barton, Permanent Under Secretary of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

Following the presentation, the High Commissioner and his entourage returned to the High Commission in horse carriages, concluding the journey with the ceremonial feeding of the horses with carrots. Upon their arrival, a Pirith chanting ceremony was held to invoke blessings on the High Commissioner.

In the evening, a Vin D’Honneur was hosted at the Sri Lanka House, attended by UK dignitaries, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Members of Parliament, FCDO representatives, journalists, and corporate leaders, celebrating the presentation of credentials. Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner Bogollagama expressed gratitude for the support extended by the UK government since his tenure began and looked forward to strengthening the bilateral relationship further.

High Commissioner Bogollagama has an extensive political career, having served as a Member of Parliament from 2000 to 2010 and holding several key ministerial positions, including Minister of Industries, Minister of Advanced Technology and National Enterprise Development, Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion, and Minister of Foreign Affairs. He also served as the Governor of the Eastern Province from 2017 to 2019.

Notably, High Commissioner Rohitha Bogollagama is the first Sri Lankan envoy to present credentials to King Charles III.