Sri Lanka and France are joyously marking their 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2023, culminating in the grand celebration of the French Spring Festival. Organized by the Embassy of France in Sri Lanka and Maldives and the network of Alliances Françaises, the 11th edition of the festival will be held from June 24 to July 13. This momentous event aims to showcase the artistic collaborations and cultural exchanges between the two nations, highlighting the rich diversity of Sri Lankan and French creativity. The French Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Jean François Pactet, announced that entry to the festival events would be free of charge, enabling everyone to partake in the festivities. Kicking off the festival on June 24, the Fête de la Musique/International Music Day will feature a lively open mic session at the Alliance française in the afternoon, followed by an enchanting evening concert at the Sri Lankan Foundation Institute. The concert will showcase talented Sri Lankan bands and a special guest performer, French singer Léa PACI. On July 5, the Alliance Française of Kotte in Colombo will host the Celebrate! photographic exhibition. The exhibition will feature the works of the winners of a photography contest, offering their unique perspectives on the chosen theme. Following its presentation in Colombo, the exhibition will travel to the Alliances françaises of Matara and Kandy, allowing a wider audience to enjoy the captivating photographs. Film enthusiasts can look forward to the French Film Festival at the National Film Corporation from July 6 to 9. The festival will present a selection of six French movies spanning various genres, including comedy, thriller, documentary, and animation. Among the highlights is Cédric Klapish’s acclaimed film “En Corps” (Rise), released in March 2022. This heartwarming and inspiring movie tells a tale of resilience and healing, captivating audiences with its powerful storytelling.