The 26th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sri Lanka–Germany Business Council (SLGBC) took place at Hilton Colombo Residences, Colombo 2.

Chief Guest at the event Dr. Felix Neumann, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, highlighted the long-standing ties between the two countries and praised the Council’s close collaboration with the German Embassy. He congratulated outgoing President Mr. Asoka Hettigoda on his new role as President of the Hotels Association of Sri Lanka, and welcomed the newly elected President, Mr. Gerard Victoria, along with the Executive Committee.

Reflecting on nearly seven decades of diplomatic relations, Dr. Neumann noted that political engagement, cultural exchange, tourism, and business cooperation have strengthened Sri Lanka–Germany ties. He welcomed Sri Lanka’s progress on anti-corruption measures and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment as a reliable partner, emphasizing shared values of innovation, quality, and sustainability.

Outgoing President Mr. Hettigoda thanked the Executive Committee for their support and highlighted the Council’s achievements over the past two years, including the “Meet the Visa Officer” initiative, amendments to the SLGBC Constitution, new member engagement programs, and successful business dialogues with the German Embassy.

Mr. Gerard Victoria, elected President for the 2025/2026 term, paid tribute to his predecessor and outlined his priorities: strengthening tourism cooperation, promoting bilateral investment in energy, logistics, manufacturing, digital services, and vocational training, and expanding trade and joint ventures.

Mr. Karim Schadlou, General Manager of Hilton Colombo Residences, was elected Senior Vice President, and Mr. Sudath Tennakoon, Chairman of Central Bearings and Machinery (Pvt) Ltd, as Vice President. Member companies Aitken Spence Cargo, Aitken Spence Travels, Ceylon Tours, C.G.V Anthony & Sons, Detroves Travels, Malship (Ceylon) Ltd, Rosen Enterprises, and Walkers Tours were elected to the Executive Committee. Outgoing President Mr. Hettigoda will continue on the Committee as Immediate Past President.

For membership inquiries, contact the SLGBC Secretariat at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, No. 50, Navam Mawatha, Colombo 2. Email: bizpromo@chamber.lk | Tel.: 011 5588829 / 5588800.