The 66 th anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka was commemorated at events held in Paris. Religious observances were conducted at the Embassy of Sri Lanka on the morning of 4th of February with religious dignitaries representing the Buddhist, Hindu, Christian and Islamic faiths offering blessings on the country and the people.
Following an almsgiving, the national flag of Sri Lanka was hoisted, followed by the singing of the national anthem, lighting of the traditional oil lamp and the observances of two minutes of silence for patriots and fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The 66 th Independence Day Messages were read in Sinhala, Tamil and English. Ambassador Karunaratne Hangawatte addressed the gathering and highlighted the need for all communities to unite in order to preserve the hard won peace in the country.
On Wednesday, 5 th February 2014 a Diplomatic and Community reception was held at the main reception hall of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
Commencing with the lighting of the oil lamp, Ambassador Hangawatte addressed the distinguished gathering of Senators, Members of the French National Assembly, Ambassadors, business and community leaders as well as a large number of friends of Sri Lanka.
Speaking about the efforts under way in the country and the achievements made thus far, Ambassador Hangawatte noted that “ Whilst independence was gained in 1948, and strides made in the ensuing years, it wasn’t until 2009 that Sri Lanka was able to rid itself of the evil of terrorism and the resulting turmoil that plagued the island for three decades.”
He added that “ The noble beliefs of compassion and care reside in the hearts and minds of Sri Lankans, having inherited these values from an ancient civilization, proud heritage and a rich and vibrant culture shaped primarily by Buddhism, and then Hinduism, Christianity and Islam as well. Sri Lankans have lived for generations in a multiethnic and multi-religious society in harmony and unison. It is through such means that the country has striven to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society those who took up arms against the State instead of opting for vindictive and punitive measures. ”
Whilst stressing the need for patience with a country that has not only grappled with terrorism but also defeated it, he said that “ We look to our friends across the world to comprehend the magnitude of the task at hand and understand what has been accomplished so far. ”
Speaking further on the beauty and attractive nature of the country, Ambassador Hangawatte said that “ Sri Lanka is blessed with natural beauty of golden beaches, fauna and flora, green hills, exquisite wild life and man-made wonders including eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, that make it rated as a top tourist destination. ”
Also speaking on the occasion was Senator Nathalie Goulet, Senator for Orne and President of the newly created France – Sri Lanka Friendship Committee in the Senate of France, who recalled her visit to Sri Lanka last year.
The audience was enthralled thereafter by a vibrant and colourful cultural presentation in which differing dance forms from across the island were incorporated to provide the guests with a spectacular display. The presentation conveying the message of unity and peace by Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim youth of the Sri Lankan Diaspora in Paris captivated the guests with their artistic ability and united spirit. During his welcome address, Ambassador Hangawatte alluding to the youth and their performance requested the audience to “ let their display of unity and peace be the message you take with you tonight. ”
During the reception that followed leading Sri Lankan tea company, Dilmah provided a special tea serving with a Traditional World Food Master Chef Sommelier presenting different varieties of tea for the distinguished gathering to savour. On display was also a photographic exhibition of the development projects in Sri Lanka and a special exhibition of scenic photographs by Mr Mathieu Ernout who visited Sri Lanka last Summer. While guests enjoyed a wide variety of Sri Lankan delicacies, special video presentations on the grandeur and beauty of tourist attractions in Sri Lanka as well as sites and sounds from across the island, were projected.
All guests left with a gift bag courtesy the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau which provided informational material on the country.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Paris
06 th February 2014
