Ambassador Ameer Ajwad of Sri Lanka met with Prince Saud Al Mishal Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Cricket Federation, at the latter’s residence in Riyadh on August 6. This meeting was an important moment in the sporting relations between the two nations, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.
The discussions between Ambassador Ajwad and Prince Al Saud were on leveraging cricket as a means to enhance people-to-people connections between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia. As both nations celebrate half a century of diplomatic relations this year, both countries focus on strengthening their bond through sports diplomacy.
Sri Lanka Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Meets with the Chairman of the Saudi Cricket Federation Prince Saud Al Mishal Al Saud
Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ameer Ajwad met with the Chairman of the Saudi Cricket Federation, Prince Saud Al Mishal Al Saud at… pic.twitter.com/kZf53cmImE
— Embassy of Sri Lanka in Saudi Arabia (@SLinRiyadh) August 9, 2024
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Sri Lanka to play huge role in promoting cricket in Saudi Arabia
During the talks, Ambassador Ajwad proposed an innovative idea to commemorate the diplomatic milestone, organizing a friendly cricket tournament between the two countries.
The meeting addressed various aspects of bilateral cooperation in cricket promotion. Ambassador Ajwad expressed Sri Lanka’s willingness to share its cricketing expertise with the Saudi Cricket Federation. This offer of support and knowledge transfer could prove important as Saudi Arabia hopes to develop its cricketing infrastructure and talent pool.
Sri Lanka, with its rich cricketing heritage and international success, stands ready to play a supportive role in nurturing the sport’s growth in the Kingdom.
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The importance of this meeting was further emphasized by the presence of key officials from both sides. Minister and Head of Chancery of the Sri Lankan Embassy, Mr. Anas, accompanied Ambassador Ameer Ajwad, while Mr. Tariq Saga, CEO, and Mr. Nawaf Alothaibi, Vice Chairman of the Saudi Cricket Federation, were present alongside Prince Al Saud.