Sri Lanka showcased its world-renowned Ceylon Tea brand at the International Tea Day held at the House of UNESCO in Paris on Friday, 20 June 2025. This was Sri Lanka’s fourth consecutive year of participation at the event, with special emphasis placed this year on the rich heritage, sustainability, and premium quality of Ceylon tea, which is an integral part of the country’s identity.
The International Tea Day, organized by the UNESCO Community Association in collaboration with the Franco-Chinese Cultural and Artistic Exchange Centre, with the Permanent Delegations of Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, Kenya, Vietnam, Mongolia, China, Sri Lanka, and several others featuring their distinctive teas as well tea drinking culture. Delegates of UNESCO, tea producers, experts and enthusiasts participated in the event highlighting the cultural ties, health benefits and the economic potential of tea.
The event was graced by the presence of the Ambassadors and Permanent Delegates to UNESCO and the Deputy Director-General of UNESCO Xing Qu. The Deputy Director-General underscored the cultural significance of tea as a shared human legacy and a promoter of sustainable development.
Speaking on the occasion, the Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Sri Lanka to UNESCO Manisha Gunasekera welcomed the opportunity to showcase the renowned Ceylon tea brand once again at UNESCO, along with other countries. She highlighted the cultural synergies connecting peoples across countries and regions through the art and aesthetic of tea drinking which is in effect a lifestyle. She also referred to new trends in the sustainable production of teas in Sri Lanka, as well as the potential for Intangible Cultural Heritage of Ceylon Tea.
The Sri Lanka stand featured premium Sri Lankan tea brands including Basilur Tea, renowned for its exquisite blends and innovative presentation. This premium display highlighted the continuing evolution of Ceylon Tea in global markets, balancing tradition with quality and sustainability. The stand attracted strong attention from UNESCO delegates and tea lovers, who had the opportunity to savour the many distinctive flavours of Ceylon tea.
A videos presentation at the Sri Lanka stand took the visitors on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s picturesque tea estates and tea trails. It showcased the process of tea cultivation and the artful techniques involved in tea preparation.
Embassy of Sri Lanka & Permanent Delegation of Sri Lanka to UNESCO
Paris
26 June 2025
