By Fazeena Saleem
DOHA: The Sri Lankan embassy was yesterday opened at new chancery premises in Al Mattar, introducing initiatives, including a helpline for community members to seek assistance for their grievances.
The new premises which can accommodate around 2,000 people, was officially inaugurated by Ambassador Dr W M Karunadasa.
The event was marked by traditional flag-hoisting, followed by Sri Lankan traditions such as singing of the Jayamangala Gatha, lighting an oil lamp, playing drums and performing folk dances.
A new website of the mission was also officially launched by Dr Karunadasa.
“The mission has set many initiatives to be implemented this year.
“We look forward to receiving support from community members in achieving the goals,” Dr Karunadasa told a large number of Sri Lankans gathered at the event.
“On the new premises, we will further enhance our services and aim to serve our citizens at our best,” he added.
The new two-storey chancery will provide a comfortable atmosphere and dedicated services to visitors, Dr Karunadasa said.
New initiatives including a 24-hour helpline. Sri Lankans facing any problems or in need of assistance could contact the mission through it and they will be immediately assisted by embassy staff.
“We will introduce the helpline soon and every Sri Lankan in need of assistance from the embassy can contact us around the clock,” said Dr Karunadasa.
An email facility will also be introduced through which Sri Lankans could directly write to the ambassador about their problems and seek solutions.
Community members can also share suggestions, opinion or complaints.
“I will look at emails and reply and I hope this type of a communication will help the community more effectively,” said Dr Karunadasa.
A suggestion and complaint box has been set up at the embassy.
The mission has designated a separate area with facilities for female domestic workers who come seeking help due to difficulties faced at work.
They are given lodging and food by the embassy until they are referred to authorities.
“When they (domestic workers) come to us with problems, we do our level best to solve their problems.
“If they wish to go home, we give assistance and make arrangements through concerned channels,” said Dr Karunadasa.
The new chancery premises is in Building No. 21, Street 860 (Al Raheeb Street), Zone 47 (Old Airport Area).
The Peninsula
