The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Canberra celebrates the 76th Anniversary of Independence Day of Sri Lanka
February 6, 2024
The 76th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s National Independence was celebrated by the Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra on 04th February 2024 at the High Commission premises with the participation of the Sri Lankan community in Canberra.
The programme commenced with hoisting the national flag by Chitranganee Wagiswara, Sri Lanka High Commissioner followed by singing the national anthem. A two minute silence was observed in honour of all the national heroes and members of the armed forces who had sacrificed their lives to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our Motherland.
Multi-faith religious observances were conducted by the clergy of all four religions offering their blessings upon Sri Lanka and its people. Chief Incumbent of the Canberra Buddhist Vihara, Venerable Aparelle Soratha Thero conducted the Buddhist religious observances followed by Reverend Jai Shanker of Canberra Hindu Temple conducted the Hindu blessings. Mr. Al-haj Mohomed Ashroff led the Islamic religious observances and Christian prayers were delivered by Pastor Reverend Manoel Niles.
The National Day messages of the Sri Lanka President, Prime Minister, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs were read by the High Commissioner, Deputy High Commissioner and the Minister of the High Commission respectively.
Addressing the gathering, the High Commissioner stated that the political freedom alone is not sufficient for the country’s development. For true freedom the economy of Sri Lanka has to be strong. Hence, Sri Lanka’s priority today is to focus on the reform process to have economic growth and thereby work towards a strong economy and bring about prosperity to our country and to the people. Further she highlighted needs of three main points of the President’s message, the need to stabilise the economy of our country, the rebuilding programme in place towards economic stability and the need to learn from past mistakes and the invitation to all Sri Lankans at home and abroad to collectively contribute to rebuild the nation.
The ceremony concluded with serving of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and invitees were enjoyed the flavours of a warm cup of Ceylon tea.
Sri Lanka High Commission
Canberra
06th February 2024
