The Sri Lanka High Commission in Canada celebrated the 72^nd Anniversary of Independence and National Day of Sri Lanka on 4^th February 2020 amidst a large gathering at the Official Residence of the High Commissioner.

The National Day events commenced with the hoisting of the national flag and the singing of the national anthem of Sri Lanka. Thereafter, multi-faith religious observances by the venerable members of the Maha Sangha and respected religious dignitaries representing the Hindu, Islam and Catholic faiths were conducted to bestow blessings on Sri Lanka and the people of the country.

The National Day messages issued by H.E the President, the Hon. Prime Minister and the        Hon. Minister of Foreign Relations were read, followed by the address of Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Canada, Asoka Girihagama.

Addressing the large gathering present, High Commissioner Girihagama paid tribute to the national heroes who fought for Sri Lanka’s independence. The High Commissioner also spoke of the need to fortify the country’s developmental agenda and to bring about improvements by overcoming challenges in the path of prosperity and economic development.

High Commissioner Girihagama also shared the vision of H. E Gotabaya Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka as mentioned in his manifesto by stating  “…what we need at this hour is correct vision and unshakable leadership. I thank you for entrusting me with the task of overcoming the challenges our country faces and leading our Motherland towards peace and prosperity. This journey is being undertaken under the guidance of a proven leader, Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa. His wisdom and experience will be a great source of strength to us, in this national endeavor. I strongly believe that I will be able to create a peaceful, prosperous and beautiful Sri Lanka that you aspire to.”

The High Commissioner also recognised the pivotal role played by the committed Sri Lankan community across Canada for their wholehearted support in the development of Sri Lanka. He also called on the expatriate Sri Lankan community in Canada to work together to pave the path of prosperity with peace, unity and harmony.

Following the Vote of Thanks, Dana was offered to the venerable members of the Buddhist clergy and lunch for the respected religious dignitaries from the Hindu, Islam and Christian faiths.

The programme concluded with the cutting of the cake and serving of a sumptuous lunch for the large number of guests who attended the event.

Sri Lanka High Commission

Ottawa

4 February 2020