BUCHAREST: The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Bucharest is taking significant steps to strengthen financial ties between Sri Lanka and Romania, focusing on secure and efficient remittance channels for the increasing number of Sri Lankan workers in the country. In a series of initiatives, the embassy is promoting formal banking systems to ensure that expatriates can safely send their earnings home, supporting both their families and Sri Lanka’s economy.
In 2024, Ambassador Madurika Joseph Weninger welcomed senior representatives from People’s Bank and Sampath Bank to discuss the importance of using established financial institutions for remittances. These efforts have laid the groundwork for further advancements in 2025, with the ambassador facilitating pivotal talks in April between DFCC Bank and Smith & Smith SRL, a payment institution authorised by the National Bank of Romania. This collaboration aims to offer Sri Lankan workers fast, reliable, and cost-effective ways to transfer money to their families.
“A key part of my mandate is to ensure that Sri Lankans working abroad have safe and trustworthy options for remitting their hard-earned income, which is a critical source of support for their families in Sri Lanka,” said Ambassador Weninger during the discussions. The partnership with DFCC Bank and Smith & Smith SRL enables instant transfers to any bank in Sri Lanka, with the added convenience of immediate cash pick-up at DFCC Bank branches, as highlighted by Senior Vice President of DFCC Bank Anton Arumugam: “This partnership ensures that Sri Lankans in Romania can make instant transfers to any bank in Sri Lanka, with the added benefit of immediate cash pick-up at DFCC Bank branches.”
To further encourage the use of formal remittance channels, DFCC Bank’s Remittance Services Department recently concluded a successful promotional campaign in Romania. A highlight of this initiative was a special ceremony at Smith & Smith’s Bucharest headquarters, where Chef Asanga Dayananda, recognised as the top remitter from Romania, was awarded a return air ticket. Ambassador Weninger presented him with a certificate of appreciation, acknowledging his significant contribution to the initiative.
The embassy’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of Sri Lankan workers abroad reflects a broader mission to deepen economic and financial cooperation between Sri Lanka and Romania. By fostering secure remittance options, these efforts not only empower expatriates but also bolster the financial stability of families and communities back home.
