Prague Zoo celebrates Sri Lankan elephants

The Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka in Vienna together with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau celebrated the 10th anniversary of gifting two elephants and the International Elephant Day at the Prague Zoo on Saturday (12).

The Government of Sri Lanka gifted two elephants named ‘Tamara’ and ‘Janita’ to the Prague Zoo in October 2012 marking a milestone in our bilateral relations. The first elephant in the Zoo named ‘Baby’ was gifted by Sri Lanka in 1933. The Late Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike also gifted two elephants namely ‘Sundari’ and ‘Kadíra’ to the Prague Zoo in 1970s.

The official commemorative ceremony provided an opportunity to promote the destination and also engaged with the large number of Czech nationals visiting the Prague zoo. The ceremony was attended by officials from Foreign Affairs Ministry of the Czech Republic, governmental institutions, travel agencies and print and electronic media in the Czech Republic.

Delivering the opening remarks, Charge d’ Affaires a.i. Charitha Weerasinghe highlighted that elephants stand as a symbol of everlasting friendship between Sri Lanka and the Czech Republic since the establishment of diplomatic relations with former Czechoslovakia in 1957 and with the Czech Republic in 1993. An invitation was extended to the participants to visit Sri Lanka well known for its endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, incredible hospitality, wildlife, world renowned tea and delicious cuisines.

Delivering her remarks, Katerina Vovkova from the Asian & Pacific Department of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of the Czech Republic appreciated the Embassy’s initiative in organising the commemorative event and shared personal anecdotes in bringing these two elephants to the Czech Republic, while serving as a diplomat in the Czech Mission in New Delhi.

Deputy Director (Public Relations) of the Prague Zoo Marketa Hoidekrova thanked the Government of Sri Lanka for gifting the elephants and recalled the historical relations of the Prague Zoo with Sri Lanka since its inception. Eight elephant keepers who serve in the Prague Zoo were honoured by the Embassy for their professionalism and care provided to the elephants.

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