On the invitation of the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka to Texas, Dakshini Senanayake Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe visited Houston, Texas on 24th February 2024. The Ambassador, during the visit, engaged with Sri Lankan Americans and visited two Buddhist temples in Houston. Texas is one of the larger US states with a significant population of Sri Lankans.
In honour of the Ambassador, Hon. Consul Senanayake, hosted a reception at Hilton Houston Westchase which was well attended by prominent Americans of Sri Lankan origin, multiethnic communities, representatives of business communities and academia, and government officials in Houston.
During his remarks at the reception, Ambassador Samarasinghe apprised the audience of Sri Lanka’s current economic status whilst informing the audience on the various initiatives taken to strengthen bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and the United States. The Ambassador also mentioned that Sri Lanka is exploring opportunities in the US in the areas of trade, investment, and tourism. The Ambassador appreciated the contribution of the Honorary Consul Senanayake for her dedication to reinforcing relations between the two countries.
Ambassador Samarsinghe also visited the two Buddhist temples and met with the Chief Prelate of Houston Buddhist Vihara, Ven. Basnagoda Rahula and Ven. Buthpitiye Samitha, Chief Abbot of Metta Vihara virtually amidst the resident monks in the two Viharas. During temple visits, he also met with the Sri Lankan community and students of educational institutions in Houston.
This visit highlighted the significance of further bolstering relations between Sri Lanka and the United States whilst appreciating the contribution made by the Sri Lankan community in Texas.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington D.C.
01 March 2024
