Japanese Government confers title on Ian Dias Abeysinghe

On April 29 the Japanese Government announced the conferment of “The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays” upon Ian Dias Abeysinghe in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the promotion of economic exchange and friendly relations between Japan and Sri Lanka.

The conferment ceremony took place yesterday at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador at Colombo 7, amidst a distinguished gathering of family, friends and special invitees. On behalf of Japanese Emperor, Japanese Ambassador Kiyoshi Araki, presided over at the conferment ceremony and presented the prestigious decoration to Abeysinghe.

A congratulatory message was sent by Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister, Masahiko Koumura on April 29 upon the announcement stating: “Please accept my sincerest congratulations on the conferment of ‘The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays’, in recognition of your outstanding achievements, and my best wishes for your good health and happiness.”

Ian Dias Abeysinghe was the Former President of Asia Cultural Association (ABKD-AOTS Alumni Association) and the Founder President of the Japan-Sri Lanka Technical and Cultural Association (JASTECA).

Abeysinghe’s first visit to Japan was in June 1962 where he underwent training at the Yuasa Battery Company of Japan under the auspices of the Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship (AOTS) for a period of over one year.

After returning to Sri Lanka Abeysinghe formed a Sri Lanka alumni of AOTS and ABKD known as the Asia Cultural Association in 1965 for the purpose of channeling more technical training opportunities to Sri Lankans.