The Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that Thai Deputy Prime Minister Supachai Panitchpakdi (Supajee Sutumpun) arrived in Sri Lanka to participate in her capacity as a Buddhist devotee in the meritorious ceremony for the enshrinement of sacred relics at the Mihintale Temple, and that this was solely a private visit.
However, a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs notes that Sri Lankan authorities provided facilities including access to the VIP terminal at the airport following a request made by the Thai Embassy.
The statement further clarifies that, as this was a private visit, no other state officials accompanied the Deputy Prime Minister.