Riyadh: The Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh, in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Riyadh Municipality, has initiated a tree-planting campaign to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The event, held at Al-Darseena Park, coincides with the 16th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (COP16), currently underway in Riyadh. The campaign aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Green Initiative, aiming to plant 10 billion trees.

Sri Lankan Ambassador Omar Lebbe Ameer Ajwad, along with embassy staff, Sri Lankan officials, and members of the Sri Lankan community in Riyadh, participated in the tree-planting ceremony. Ghada binth Abdullah Al-Omran, Director of Volunteer Services at the Riyadh Municipality, expressed gratitude for the initiative and the community's involvement.

Ambassador Ajwad highlighted the significance of the event, stating that it not only strengthens the bond between the two nations but also contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and desertification. He thanked Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Mayor of the Riyadh Region, for allocating park spaces and the Riyadh Municipality for their support in organizing the event.

To further celebrate the 50th anniversary, the Sri Lankan Embassy is organizing the Ambassador’s Cup Cricket Tournament, involving Sri Lankan communities in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.