27 November 2023 04:38 pm Views - 1447
The artifacts, including the notable Lewke’s cannon, a Golden Kasthane, a Silver Kasthane, a Sinhalese Knife, and two Guns, are slated to be repatriated to Sri Lanka in the first week of December, marking the end of their more than 200-year sojourn abroad.
Leading the mission on behalf of the Netherlands is the Dutch Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation, Dewi van de Weerd. The formal handover is scheduled to take place during a two-day event at the Colombo National Museum on December 5 and 6. This event, open to the public, will not only witness the physical return of these artifacts but also feature activities designed to educate both the young and old on the extensive shared history between Sri Lanka and the Netherlands.
In an official statement, the Embassy highlighted the significance of this restitution, emphasizing the Netherlands' commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Sri Lanka and addressing its colonial past.