According to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Doha, the event also commemorated the 159th anniversary of the Ceylon Tea industry, highlighting the beverage’s global reputation as one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic exports and a symbol of friendship, heritage and cultural exchange.
The event was attended by ambassadors, diplomats, senior government officials, business leaders and media representatives, with General Manager of Katara Cultural Village Khalid Al Sulaiti participating as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the gathering, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Qatar, Sithara Khan, said Ceylon Tea has earned international recognition for its quality and authenticity since its introduction in 1867, while also representing the livelihoods, traditions and sustainability of Sri Lanka’s tea-growing communities.
She noted that launching the Golden Jubilee celebrations with Ceylon Tea was particularly meaningful, describing tea as a symbol of hospitality, friendship and dialogue that reflects the enduring partnership between Sri Lanka and Qatar over the past five decades.
Ambassador Khan also expressed appreciation to the Qatar–Sri Lanka Business Council and Katara Cultural Village for supporting the event.
A key attraction of the evening was a showcase of Sri Lanka’s seven regional Ceylon Tea varieties, offering guests an opportunity to experience the country’s diverse tea heritage. Around 150 invited guests sampled a curated selection of premium Ceylon teas, accompanied by artisanal refreshments.
The tea-tasting event marks the first in a series of programmes scheduled to take place throughout 2026 and 2027 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Qatar.
