New high commission building in Sri Lanka marks UK’s commitment: envoy

March 28, 2007 (LBO) – The construction of a new building for the British High Commission (embassy) is a symbol of Britain’s commitment to Sri Lanka, its envoy said in Colombo. The High Commision says the building which is scheduled to open in early 2008, was designed by British architect Richard Murphy, with Sri Lankan architects Milroy Perera, and was inspired by the greatest Sri Lankan architect of the modern era, Geoffrey Bawa.

A ˜topping out’ ceremony which marks the completion of the highest point in the superstructure of the building took place Tuesday.

œ¦.this new High Commission is a statement of intent to remain committed to Sri Lanka’s future and to the work of the British Government in Sri Lanka, High Commissioner Chilcott was quoted as saying at the ceremony in a statement by the high commission.

œBy the time of Sri Lanka’s 60th anniversary of independence (from Britain), we shall have a beautiful, energy-saving new building of which Britain and Sri Lanka can feel proud.