On the occasion of passing of Ambassador Jayantha Dhanapala, a distinguished diplomat who brought fame to Sri Lanka, the Bandaranaike International Diplomatic Training Institute (BIDTI) organized a special event on 27th May 2024 to celebrate his memory.
To mark the first anniversary of his passing, Ambassador H. M. G. S. Palihakkara, the former Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the former Governor of the Northern Province delivered the lecture on ‘Multilateralism in the Context of Current Challenges’. He mentioned that Ambassador Dhanapala as a multilateralist who mingled with kings, global leaders, statesmen and policymakers throughout his professional life never lost the common touch as it was his nature to welcome people from all walks of life. Further, he emphasised that Ambassador Dhanapala was an outstanding practitioner and promoter of multilateral solutions to global issues especially in peace and security. As a firm believer of international cooperation, he saw it as a means of advancing solutions to common problem of humanity.
Prior to the memorial lecture, Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Aruni Wijewardane spoke recollecting acquaintances she had with Ambassador Jayantha Dhanapala in her professional career.
Dr. Kiran, the daughter of Ambassador Dhanapala, appreciated the presence of all guests comprising of former Secretaries, Ambassadors, academia, officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, media and friends who associated to celebrate the life of her father.