Flag-raising ceremony marks anniversary |05 February 2016
The Sri Lankan community in Seychelles marked their country’s 68th Independence Day celebrations by a flag hoisting ceremony at the residence of the high commissioner of Sri Lanka to Seychelles, Tikiri Gunathilake, at Carana, Machabée.
Another key moment of the day, was the reading by the high commissioner of the message for the occasion from the President of Sri Lanka, Miathripala Sirisena.
In his message, President Sirisena expressed his country’s pride of the progress made towards safeguarding the freedom, sovereignty, territorial integrity of the Sri Lankan nation and strengthening national reconciliation and economic and political rights of all the country’s citizens.
“This occasion is of special significance because we commemorate the dawn of freedom at a time coinciding with the taking of clear and resolute steps to firmly establish democracy and good governance, the rule of law, and a truly meaningful parliamentary system; to establish a long lasting and stable structure of good governance in keeping with the mandate given by the people one year ago. We are resolved to continue on this path to create a socio-political environment for all citizens to live securely without fear,” said President Sirisena.
The president also talked on his country’s new drive for development and the strength of its freedom largely depends on developing indigenous skills and knowledge, while zealously guarding the rich cultural and social heritage of the past as Sri Lanka moves ahead to the victories of the future.
“As we commemorate independence, let us dedicate ourselves to provide a truly ethical, virtuous, wise and equitable service to all. Let us pledge to consolidate on peace and freedom achieved and build this future for our land and people,” urged the Sri Lankan president.
Other messages read were from Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The ceremony also saw observances from multi faiths of Sri Lanka like Buddhist, Hindu, Christian and Islam.
The celebrations to mark the 68th Independence Day anniversary of Sri Lanka will continue on Saturday with a cultural show at the 369 Restaurant.