Ambassador of Sri Lanka

As Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Japan and the Republic of Korea

President Jayewardene handpicked Dr Kodituwakku to be sent as the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Japan due to his personal affection for and special relationship with that country. Dr. Kodituwakku took up the appointment in April 1988. During his tenure, Japan emerged as the single largest bilateral donor to Sri Lanka and goodwill among Buddhists in the two countries increased.

Dr. Kodituwakku later moved to Seoul as the Sri Lankan Ambassador to the Republic of Korea. During his term there, Korea became the single largest foreign investor in Sri Lanka with more than 100 Foreign Direct Investments. He also negotiated the first-ever ODA from the Republic of Korea. Further, he took a hand in both countries’ opening of doors to Sri Lankan youth for industrial training, a scheme that has very popular demand among youth even today.

“My knowledge of the high character and ability of Mr Karunasena Kodituwakku assures me…”
by President J R Jayewardene, First Executive President of Sri Lanka (11 May 1988)