The staff of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Washington DC, on 01 January 2019, ceremonially commenced work for year 2019, following a special event conducted at the mission premises.
The event started with the hoisting of the National Flag of Sri Lanka at the chancery building by Chargé d'Affaires Sarath Dissanayake. The National Anthem of Sri Lanka was sung by the staff, followed by the observance of two - minutes silence in remembrance of national heroes and those who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. The Oath of Public Servants was taken in Sinhala and Tamil thereafter.
Speaking on the occasion, Chargé d'Affaires Dissanayake greeted all staff and wished them a happy, peaceful and successful New Year. He quoted the New Year messages issued by President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, and noted the emphasis placed therein on a new era of peace, reconciliation and prosperity for all Sri Lankans irrespective of ethnic, religious and other differences. In closing, the Chargé d'Affaires, requested all staff to redouble their efforts and rededicate themselves to serve the motherland with a resolute commitment, determination and steadfastness.
The staff joined in fellowship by sharing Sri Lankan traditional milk rice and sweetmeats to celebrate the dawn of the New Year 2019.
