High Commission of Sri Lanka in Bangladesh celebrated the 67th Independence Day on 4th February 2015 with the participation of a large number of Sri Lankans and diplomatic community, prominent political and business leaders in Bangladesh in two separate events at the “Sri Lanka Residence” premises.
At the official ceremony, Mr. A.G. Abeysekera, Sri Lanka’s Actg. High Commissioner in Bangladesh hoisted the National flag amidst sounds of traditional drums Magul Bera and Jayamangalagatha sung by children from Sri Lanka Dhamma school. Religious observances by Buddhist, Hindu, Christian and Islamic priests were conducted invoking blessings on Sri Lanka and its people and a two minute silence in honor of all those who sacrificed their lives for motherland was observed. The Independence Day messages of His Excellency Maithripala Sirisena, the President of Sri Lanka were also read in all three languages.
Addressing the large Sri Lankan community present on the occasion, the Actg. High Commissioner highlighted the importance of strengthening national unity amongst all communities under the new administration in Sri Lanka. He also thanked and invited the Sri Lankan expat community in Bangladesh to contribute towards the economic development in Sri Lanka. At the conclusion of the ceremony, nearly 300 Sri Lankans who were present at the event were able to enjoy a traditional breakfast spread which included kiribath and sweetmeats.
The Mission organized a reception for the Diplomatic, business community of Bangladesh during the evening of 4th February and Hon. Mr. Md. Shahriar Alam, M.P., State Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Over 200 diplomats, senior government officials, Armed Forces of Bangladesh, business leaders, media personnel attended the event which featured traditional Sri Lankan daces and a spread of traditional Sri Lankan food and delicacies.
Actg. High Commissioner Abeysekera addressing the gathering recognized the excellent relations between the Bangladesh and Sri Lanka whilst appreciating the people of Bangladesh for their steadfast support for Sri Lanka in international platforms and urged further enhancement of existing bilateral ties.
The Chief Guest Hon. State Minister for Foreign Affairs, in his remarks, recalled the cordial relationship between two countries that has existed over the years and expressed hope that under the new leadership in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh will be able to further strengthen the on-going dialogue between the two countries to enhance cooperation in various areas, particularly in the fields of health, shipping & connectivity and trade and economic activities.
Two special news paper supplements were published in the “Independent” and the “Financial Express” English Daily newspapers in Bangladesh to mark the occasion by the High Commission.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Dhaka
8th February 2015
