Mount Lavinia Hotel says PM, FM were invited for ABBA show

As some public criticism grew over the presence of Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism Vijitha Herath at the recent ABBA Show, the Mount Lavinia Hotel clarified that the VIPs were invited to attend as guests.

The hotel said that it has always been a proud supporter of Sri Lanka?s tourism and cultural initiatives and the show was organised as part of efforts to promote tourism.

“The ABBA Show was organized as part of our efforts to promote tourism and entertainment in the country, aligning with our mission to position Sri Lanka as a vibrant destination for international and local travelers. As a tourism-related event, we extended invitations to several dignitaries, including the Honorable Prime Minister – Harini Amarasuriya and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism – Vijitha Herath in recognition of their roles in supporting the industry,” Mount Lavinia Hotel said.

The hotel said they were honored that the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister humbly accepted the invitation and graced the event with their presence.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya and Foreign Minister Herath were among well-known personalities at the Mount Lavinia Hotel for Arrival From Sweden – The Music of ABBA show.

Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva was also a notable guest at the concert.

Top military officials, diplomats and others were also at the packed show.

ARRIVAL from Sweden was founded by Vicky Zetterberg in 1995 in Gothenburg, Sweden and very soon became one of the world?s most popular and most selling ABBA show bands. Since the start in 1995 the band has toured in over 70 countries, done 82 successful USA tours and has appeared in several TV and radio shows all over the world. Selling out arenas seated up to 50 000 people.

The ABBA-fan club consider ARRIVAL From Sweden as ?the closest you will ever get to ABBA!? (Colombo Gazette)