High Commission Hosts Meeting to Mobilize Collective Support for Sri Lanka’s Disaster Relief Efforts

On Sunday, 30 November 2025, the High Commission of Sri Lanka in the United Kingdom convened a meeting to coordinate collective disaster relief support for communities devastated by Cyclone Ditwah and the severe flooding it caused. The meeting also focused on mobilizing assistance for the long-term rebuilding of the country.

 

Held at the High Commission premises and simultaneously accessible online via Zoom, the event drew wide participation from Sri Lankan religious leaders, politicians, community organizations, and volunteers in the United Kingdom including the Chief Sanghanayake of Great Britain, Venerable Bogoda Seelawimala Maha Thero.

The session provided a vital platform to discuss several proposals for disaster relief and recovery efforts across Sri Lanka originated from the community. Participants reviewed avenues for contributions, including government-declared bank accounts and other official channels. Briefing the gathering, High Commissioner Nimal Senadheera highlighted that disaster relief donations have been exempted from customs tariffs by a decision of the Government of Sri Lanka, thereby encouraging contributions from the Sri Lankan community abroad (https://srilankahc.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Notice-3-High-Commission-AC-details_page-0001-1.jpg). It was decided to appoint a committee representing the High Commission, religious leadership and members of the community organizations to regularly meet and discuss avenues for supporting the long term recovery and rebuilding efforts in Sri Lanka in the future.

Several online participants shared their deposits through designated government accounts, while in-person attendees pledged substantial donations expressing solidarity with the affected communities in Sri Lanka. The High Commission expressed its deep appreciation for the generosity and commitment demonstrated by all participants. These contributions will play a crucial role in strengthening relief efforts, restoring essential services, and supporting displaced families across all 25 districts of the country.