Lanka promoted at Lions Convention

Sri Lanka Tourism’s initiative to support Mahendra Amerasuriya on his installation as world President at the Lions International Convention in Chicago saw the Channa-Upuli Performing Arts Foundation presenting a stunning dance recital, showcasing Sri Lanka as a country rich in culture and arts.

The event drew over 30,000 representatives, from 200 countries, from a 1.2 million strong Lion’s movement to the ‘United Centre’ Chicago home to the legendary basketball players - the Chicago Bulls.

The procession of member clubs, were led by batik saree clad ladies, and sarong clad men waving Sri Lanka flags and Sesaths, earning them the reward; ‘Best Parade’ in the procession.

Sri Lanka Tourist Board, made use of this moment when the first Sri Lankan to be inducted to the high office of world presidency of the Lions Club took place in Chicago to draw positive attention to Sri Lanka.

The sponsorship of the 16 member dance troupe of the Channa-Upuli Performing Arts Foundation was but one aspect; the focus was a total awareness creating programme of Sri Lanka a land like no other to the Lions present at the convention.

The Sri Lanka Tourist Board stall at the convention drew many to it, and the interest in Sri Lanka, was further heightened, amongst Lions at the convention, due to Sri Lanka being the venue for their forthcoming 35th ISSAME Forum (Lions regional meeting covering South African, Middle Eastern and SAARC region).

The ISSAME is scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka this year from December 5 to 8 where over 500 members are expected to participate.

Amerasuriya will travel to 200 countries during his tenure of World Club Presidency.