Lanka seeks return of six more artefacts from Netherlands
Sri Lanka has requested the return of six more historical artefacts from the Netherlands under the second phase of its cultural restitution process, as the two countries mark 75 years of diplomatic relations. Deputy Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando made the disclosure while addressing the National Day Reception of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Colombo […]
Sri Lanka has sought the return of six additional historical artefacts from the Netherlands as part of its ongoing cultural restitution process, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. Deputy Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando made this announcement during a National Day Reception in Colombo on Thursday.
Earlier in December 2023, Sri Lanka had successfully retrieved six similar items from the Rijksmuseum following joint investigations into their origins. These returned artifacts—comprising a golden kasthana, silver kasthana, golden knife, two Mahathuwakku (wall guns), and Lewke Disave’s cannon—originated from the Kandyan Kingdom and were obtained during the colonial era.
Fernando emphasized that these returns underscore the countries' commitment to mutual respect, reconciliation, and the preservation of their shared cultural heritage. He also pointed to the growing tourism collaboration, noting that Sri Lanka attracted 2,362,521 international tourists in 2025, marking a 15.1% increase from the prior year.
The Netherlands secured the ninth position among Sri Lanka's tourism markets, with 64,164 Dutch visitors. Reflecting on their history, Fernando highlighted that the bilateral relationship extends beyond four centuries, with formal diplomatic ties established in 1951. Over time, cooperation has broadened to encompass trade, investment, education, tourism, culture, and maritime affairs.
Areas identified for future collaboration include sustainable maritime development, ocean governance, maritime security, port development, and the blue economy. The Netherlands has already extended support to Sri Lanka across various sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, rural development, water supply, healthcare, disaster management, and food security.
Sri Lanka's inclusion in the Netherlands' International Cultural Policy for 2025–2028 was highlighted as a further step to reinforce cultural cooperation. Additionally, Fernando underscored recent diplomatic advancements, including the Second Round of Political Consultations in The Hague in October 2025 and ongoing discussions between the Foreign Ministers, as significant milestones in deepening bilateral ties.
He reiterated Sri Lanka's dedication to enhancing its partnership with the Netherlands as they commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
