New Sasakawa Sri Lanka–Japan Cultural Centre Reflects Longstanding Friendship – PM Harini Amarasuriya
Colombo | June 11, 2026
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the newly established Sasakawa Memorial Sri Lanka–Japan Cultural Centre represents the enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and Japan.
She made these remarks while attending the official opening ceremony of the new cultural centre held on June 11, 2026.
Cultural Centre Officially Opened in Colombo
The new centre, located at No. 85, Ward Place, Colombo 07, has been constructed by the Sasakawa Memorial Sri Lanka–Japan Cultural Centre Foundation.
It is designed to serve as a key hub for promoting cultural exchange, education, vocational training, and bilateral cooperation between Sri Lanka and Japan.
During the ceremony, the Prime Minister unveiled the commemorative plaque marking the official opening of the centre.
MoU Signed Between Defence Ministry and Sasakawa Foundation
Following the inauguration, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Ministry of Defence and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation in the presence of Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and Honourable Chairman of the Nippon Foundation, Yohei Sasakawa.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations Through Culture and Education
Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual ties between Sri Lanka and Japan, noting that both nations share strong values in nature, culture, education, and social harmony.
She further emphasized that the Sasakawa Centre plays a vital role in promoting Japanese language education and strengthening mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries.
Commitment to Peace and International Cooperation
In the context of global uncertainty, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of cooperation based on mutual respect and commitment to peace.
She reaffirmed that both Sri Lanka and Japan remain committed to promoting an international order that supports peace, prosperity, and human dignity.
High-Level Participation
The event was attended by several dignitaries including Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata, Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Yohei Sasakawa of the Nippon Foundation, and Premalal Fernando of the Sasakawa Centre Foundation, along with other diplomats and invited guests.
