January 10, Colombo (LNW): Scheduled to begin today, the three-day visit of The Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence to Sri Lanka marks a significant milestone as both nations celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties.
The British High Commission in Colombo announced this visit, highlighting the strong personal connections and shared interests that bind the UK and Sri Lanka, fostering a natural partnership within the Commonwealth. During her visit, The Princess Royal is set to engage in various activities, including meetings with President Ranil Wickremesinghe and interactions with businesses, charities, and the Save the Children Sri Lanka Programme.
In her capacity as President of Commonwealth War Graves, she plans to pay respects at a Commonwealth War Grave, signifying the importance of historical remembrance. The itinerary also features visits to religiously significant sites in Kandy and Colombo, as well as engagements with local communities and civil society representatives in Jaffna.
Notably, The Princess Royal’s last visit to Sri Lanka in 1995, as the patron of Save the Children, aimed to familiarize herself with the charity’s supported projects. This tour stands as the Royal family’s inaugural overseas visit for 2024, reflecting the enduring ties between the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka.
