The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Japan recently conducted a mobile Consular service in Ashikaga, located in Tochigi Prefecture, to provide essential services to the Sri Lankan community residing in the region.
Embassy officials addressed a wide range of community needs, offering assistance with passports, visas, driving licenses, education, health, and more. Key services included affidavit issuance, passport endorsements, and other vital consular functions. The initiative saw a large turnout from Sri Lankans, underscoring the importance and relevance of such outreach programmes.
The mobile service was held in conjunction with the “Poson Kalapaya” celebration organised by the Ohana Association in Tochigi. The event, held to mark Vesak and Poson Poya, featured over 600 artistically illuminated lanterns, creating a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere that brought together both Sri Lankans and Japanese in a shared cultural experience.
An art competition was also organised as part of the festivities, and participating children—both Sri Lankan and Japanese—were recognised for their creativity with school bag prizes.
The religious observances were graced by Ven. Mawathare Chandima Thera, Chief Incumbent of the Tochigi Paramita Meditation Centre, and Ven. Varawila Wijayawansa Thera, Chief Incumbent of the Saithama Kumagaya Anandameth Viharaya, along with members of the Maha Sangha.
The Embassy’s initiative highlighted its ongoing commitment to ensuring inclusive service delivery while strengthening cultural and spiritual bonds among the overseas Sri Lankan community.
