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Wishwanath Aponsu

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Goniya Malimage Vipulatheja Wishwanath Aponsu (born September 1, 1969) is a distinguished Sri Lankan diplomat who has served in various high-profile roles within the Sri Lanka Foreign Service. He currently holds the position of Director General of the Economic Affairs Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka. Aponsu is known for his contributions to cultural diplomacy and international relations, particularly in strengthening Sri Lanka's ties with the Middle East and South Asia.

Early Life and Education

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Wishwanath Aponsu was born on September 1, 1969, in Sri Lanka. He attended Prince of Wales College, Moratuwa, where he was active in both academics and extracurricular activities, including rugby, cadetting, and drama. He later pursued higher education at the University of Colombo, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree. Aponsu furthered his education with two Master's degrees: one in Political Science from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, and another in International Relations from Annamalai University, India. Additionally, he holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Psychology Guidance and Counseling.

Diplomatic Career

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Aponsu joined the Sri Lanka Foreign Service in 2003 after passing the Open Competitive Foreign Service Examination. His career in diplomacy has seen him serve in various capacities, including:

Director General, Economic Affairs Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2023-Present): In this role, Aponsu is responsible for overseeing Sri Lanka's economic diplomacy efforts, focusing on fostering international trade relations and economic partnerships.

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Iran (2021-2023): During his tenure, Aponsu focused on strengthening Sri Lanka-Iran relations, particularly in the areas of cultural exchange and economic cooperation.

Director General, Consular Affairs Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2020-2021)

Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Singapore (2014-2015): Aponsu played a pivotal role in enhancing Sri Lanka's diplomatic presence in Singapore and was instrumental in the publication of the first volume of Sadisi, a diplomatic magazine marking 50 years of Sri Lanka-Singapore relations.

First Secretary and Head of Chancery, Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (2010-2012)

Contributions to Cultural Diplomacy

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Wishwanath Aponsu is particularly noted for his work in cultural diplomacy. He served as the Chief Editor of Sadisi, a publication that highlights Sri Lanka's diplomatic relations with other nations. The first volume was published during his tenure in Singapore, and he continues to contribute to subsequent editions, including the second volume, which celebrates 60 years of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Iran.

Awards and Recognition

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Throughout his career, Aponsu has been recognized for his contributions to both diplomacy and the arts. He was awarded the Best Supporting Actor Presidential Award at the All Island School Drama Competition in 1989, recognizing his talent in drama.

Personal Life

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Wishwanath Aponsu is married and the father of two children. He continues to be involved in social work, arts, and theater. He has also served as a visiting lecturer at the Bandaranaike Center for International Studies (BCIS) and is an active member of various professional and cultural organizations.