First anniversary of inauguration in office of the President

January 8, 2016

The first anniversary of the inauguration in office of His Excellency Maithripala Sirisena was celebrated at the High Commission on the morning of 8th January, with the participation of religious dignitaries representing Buddhist, Hindu, Christian and Islam faiths, and representatives of Sri Lanka Associations based in Canberra.

The Chief Prelate of the Canberra Buddhist Vihara and religious dignitaries representing the Hindu, Christian and Islam faiths invoked blessings on the President, Government and the people of Sri Lanka, as well as the High Commission staff and Sri Lankan community in Canberra.

In welcoming those present, the High Commissioner said “we come into this world as equals. We leave it as equals. Why then should the interim be treated differently?”

He then quoted Lord Buddha’s saying “Lokah Samathah Sukhina Bhavanthu” and observed that His Excellency the President’s vision for Sri Lanka and all its people was also the same and emphasised our collective responsibility to contribute sincerely and meaningfully towards it.

The religious blessing was followed by the planting of two trees in the Mission premises, to the chanting of pirith.