The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Paris, France hosted a special evening dedicated to the heritage, craftsmanship, and global significance of Ceylon tea at the Embassy premises on 21 May 2026 to celebrate the International Tea Day 2026 with the theme “Sustaining Tea, Supporting Communities” with the support of the Sri Lanka Tea Board. The event brought together diplomats, tea experts, and friends of Sri Lanka for an immersive journey into the world of tea.
Addressing the event, Ms. Sanju Dasanayake, CDA a.i of the Embassy welcomed diplomatic representatives from countries including Russia, Azerbaijan, Portugal, Spain, Türkiye, India, Pakistan, Peru, Chile and many other partners connected through the global tea trade.
Ms. Prasadi Boomawalage, First Secretary (Commercial) introduced the specialties of Ceylon Tea to the audience gathered. Ms. Himali Rathnaweera /Minister, Mr. Rifa Wadood /Minister (UNESCO) & Mr. Chaminda Udawatta, Defense Attache of the Embassy also shared the legacy of Ceylon Tea with the guests during the networking session followed by the celebration.
The evening was masterfully moderated by Gilles Brochard, renowned French journalist, author, and co-founder of the Club des Buveurs de Thé, whose work has contributed greatly to promoting tea culture and appreciation in France.
A fascinating degustation and presentation of the seven tea regions of Sri Lanka was conducted by Lydia Gautier and Maria Kockmann, both internationally respected tea specialists whose expertise enriched the experience for all participants.
Representatives from AVPA – Agence pour la Valorisation des Produits Agricoles, L’Autre Thé, tea professionals, sommeliers, and fair-trade advocates who shared valuable insights into sustainability, artisanal tea production, and the future of ethical tea consumption, added more value to the event.
Guests discovered:
The unique characteristics of Ceylon Tea
Sri Lanka’s seven tea-growing regions
Orthodox tea manufacturing traditions
Handmade artisanal teas and specialty tea grades
The global importance of Sri Lanka as the world’s leading exporter of orthodox black tea.
A special highlight of the evening was the meditative experience, “The Inner Garden”, where participants explored tea as a moment of mindfulness, serenity, and connection while enjoying a comforting cup of Ceylon Tea accompanied by soft Sri Lankan-inspired music.
The evening concluded with a refined high tea reception featuring authentic Sri Lankan delicacies, artisanal teas, and a display of premium Ceylon tea grades, offering guests a true sensory journey through Sri Lanka’s tea heritage.
More than an event, this celebration was a tribute to the people, landscapes, traditions, and craftsmanship that make Ceylon Tea a symbol of excellence recognized across the world.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Paris
27 May 2026
