The BIDTI inaugurated the 20th Diploma Course in Diploma in Diplomacy & World Affairs on 5th March 2019 with the presence of over hundred participants who enrolled for the course.
Delivering the inaugural address by the Director General (Policy & Research) Sashikala Premawardene representing Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs mentioned that Sri Lanka’s involvement in the conduct of foreign relations goes back to ancient times citing dispatching of envoys during the Anuradhapura Kingdom. Referring to the post-independence period she highlighted role Sri Lanka played in the United Nations Convention on Law of the sea and the UNCTAD. Further, she explained the present engagement of making Sri Lanka as the hub of the Indian Ocean, emphasized the need of a White Paper on the foreign policy and challenging task of creating it.
The Canadian High Commissioner David McKinnon delivered the keynote speech highlighted the Canadian Foreign Policy and its achievement based on principles of human rights and democratic norms. He also referred to the longstanding friendly relations Canada enjoys with Sri Lanka over a half century.
Delivering the vote of thanks Ravindra Lekamwasam explained the impact and advantage of the course he experienced as a medical student.
