A large number of representatives from the UK government authorities, international organizations, non-governmental bodies and private sector businesses joined the UK-edition of the Global Ceylon Tea Party, on July 6, hosted by the Sri Lanka High Commission in London, in close collaboration with the Colombo Tea Traders’ Association and the Sri Lanka Tea Board.
In her welcome address, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in UK, Amari Wijewardene highlighted the valuable role played by James Taylor, the Scottish planter, who pioneered commercial plantation of teas in the island, 150 years ago, and the overall contribution made by the British in the subsequent development of the tea industry.
She placed special emphasis on the world-wide recognition gained by Ceylon teas, due to their premium quality and distinctive flavours.
Addressing the gathering, Ian Gibbs, Chairman of the International Tea Committee, said, Sri Lanka had been an active player within the global tea industry, making a substantial contribution as a leading producer and exporter of black teas. He said, Sri Lanka had been in the forefront as a key exporter of value-added teas to the world. Honorary Sri Lanka Tea Ambassador in UK, Mike Bunston also spoke at the occasion. He presented a detailed account of the history and the gradual evolution of the Ceylon tea industry over the last 150 years. He said, the industry, which started with just 19 acres of tea plantation, had come a long way with many achievements. He also pointed out that the industry should take effective measures to address the challenges encountered in current times, if the country is to retain its prominent status in the global tea industry.
Speaking on behalf of Finlays Colombo Limited, one of the sponsors of the event, Sathyani Rajapaksha, Procurement Manager of the Company, said, Finlays was very happy to join the tea party in London as there was a long-established relationship between UK and the Ceylon tea industry. Guests enjoyed the evening with a wide variety of snacks and sweets and freshly brewed Ceylon teas, representing the seven agro-climatic tea growing regions in the island.