Sri Lanka to host Surajkund like fairs

By Haryananewswire

CHANDIGARH, FEB 12

 Fairs like the 27^th Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2013 would also be organized in Sri Lanka on the same pattern.

          Addressing the media persons, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, Mr. Prasad Kariyawasam said this at Surajkund today. He said that discussion would be held with Surajkund Mela Authority in this regard. He said that this fair would not only prove economically beneficial for both the countries, but would also promote the traditional art of handicrafts. Also, to have good relations with a developing country like India is a matter of great significance for Sri Lanka, he added.

          He said that Haryana Government has provided the artists and craftsmen with an international level platform. Comparing the culture of both the countries, he said that Sinhala language of Sri Lanka is quiet similar to Sanskrit and Pali languages spoken in India and both the countries have equal devotion for Buddhism. He said that although Sri Lanka and India are two different countries, they share similar cultural heritage. He said that maximum number of tourists visiting Sri Lanka are Indians and similarly, India is a first choice for Sri Lankan tourists.

          Replying to a question regarding today being celebrated as Sri Lanka day in the fair, he said that since the year 2008 Sri Lanka has been participating in this fair and through this both the countries got opportunities to know about each other’s culture.