OREANDA-NEWS. Sri Lanka Telecom celebrated the impending arrival of the New Year by hosting its’ second annual traditional Sinhalese banquet at Nuga Gama, Cinnamon Grand last evening, the 6th of April 2016. The event themed ‘SLT Kovul Nade 2016’ was organized specially for members of the media, with the aim of further developing relations between SLT and the media.

Garlands of Temple flowers decorated the garden along with arrangements of Lotus blossoms and the SLT ‘Kovul Nade’ banner. The guests were also able to enjoy the sight of children taking part in the traditional New Year games and activities, while they socialized and enjoyed beverages such as, Tamarind, Amberalla and Ginger.

The events started off, with Mr. Wajira Jaywardena greeting and welcoming the gathering, following which he invited members of the senior management of SLT and significant members of the media to participate in the lighting of the traditional oil lamp.

Addressing the gathering, Group CEO of Sri Lanka Telecom, Mr. Dileepa Wijesundera stated that he is proud to say that “Today we are represented here as a group”. Mr. Wijesundera went on to list a number key achievements accomplished by SLT over the past 12 months. “By the end of 2016 we will see significant improvement in the ICT footprint of Sri Lanka through SLT” stated Mr. Wijesundera. Speaking further, declared that the media plays an important role in SLT’s success and added that he hoped that SLT and the media would be able to work more closely..

Following Mr. Wijesundera’s speech, the Chairman of SLT, Mr. Kumarasinghe Sirisena spoke highlighting the value of a strong relationship between SLT and the media. Mr. Sirisena invited the members of the media to join SLT in working together to ensure a better future for Sri Lanka, stating that despite the many challenges each party will have to face, it is important for everyone to remember that they work for the good of the public.

The evening ended with a number of entertaining performances, dinner and socializing as members of SLT mingled with members of the media.