The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Islamabad participated in the Sri Lanka Food Festival held in Karachi from 6–7 February 2026 at the Avari Hotel, Karachi, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Sri Lanka. The event was primarily guided and coordinated by the High Commission with the valuable support of the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Hyderabad, based in Karachi.

Two professional chefs from Sri Lanka prepared a range of authentic Sri Lankan dishes, offering guests a unique gastronomic experience that highlighted the island nation’s vibrant food culture.
The festival was graced by the Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka and members of the Sri Lankan Parliamentary Delegation, who were in Karachi to attend the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Conference.

The event attracted a distinguished gathering of leading business entrepreneurs, members of think tanks, diplomats, and the Sri Lankan community residing in the region. The festival was highly appreciated by attendees for its cultural significance and warm hospitality. Mr. Mehmood Mandviwalla, Honorary Consul, warmly welcomed the High Commissioner, Deputy Speaker and delegation, Minister of Sri Lanka High Commission and distinguished invitees to the Sri Lankan Food Festival, organised as part of the celebrations marking the 78th Independence Day of Sri Lanka. He highlighted that two master chefs were specially flown in from Sri Lanka to present the authentic flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Mr. Mandviwalla further emphasized that, much like the vibrant and rich flavours of Sri Lankan food, the longstanding relationship between the people of Pakistan and Sri Lanka carries its own special flavour, one of friendship, affection, and enduring goodwill.
Addressing the gathering, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Islamabad, Rear Admiral Fred Senevirathne emphasized the importance of organizing such cultural initiatives as part of the Government of Sri Lanka’s efforts to strengthen cultural diplomacy and people-to-people connections.

The High Commissioner noted that events of this nature play a vital role in fostering mutual understanding, promoting tourism, and enhancing bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
The Deputy Speaker, in his remarks, praised the longstanding and close relationship between Pakistan and Sri Lanka and commended hosting the Sri Lankan Food Festival as part of the 78th Independence Day celebrations, calling it a meaningful tribute to shared friendship and cultural ties.

The Sri Lanka Food Festival in Karachi successfully reinforced cultural ties and highlighted Sri Lanka’s commitment to promoting friendship and cooperation through cultural engagement.