The Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Kingdom of Bahrain celebrated the 77th anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka, embracing the nation's rich cultural and religious diversity under the theme “Towards a National Renaissance”.
The official flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the Chancery premises on 04 February 2025, with the participation of the Sri Lankan community including representatives from various associations.
The event commenced with the hoisting of the national flag by Chargé d'Affaires (a.i.) of Sri Lanka in Manama, Madhuka Silva, followed by the singing of the national anthem, a moment of silence for heroes who sacrificed their lives for the motherland, lighting of the traditional oil lamp, religious observances by clergy from all four religions, and the reading of National Day messages of the President, Prime Minister, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism of Sri Lanka in Sinhala, Tamil, and English.
Chargé d'Affaires Madhuka Silva briefed the audience on the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, a national programme aimed at improving the country’s economic, social, and governance sustainability encouraging Sri Lankans in Bahrain to contribute to national rejuvenation. While acknowledging the significant contributions of Sri Lankan expatriates to national development, she emphasized the government’s policy framework, "A Thriving Nation and a Beautiful Life," aimed at fostering economic growth, eliminating rural poverty, and advancing digital transformation for a more unified and prosperous nation. The celebrations were further enriched by traditional dance performances, and attendees were treated to Sri Lankan delicacies at the conclusion of the event.
As part of the Independence Day celebrations, the Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Kingdom of Bahrain also hosted a diplomatic reception at the Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront, Seef, on 05 February 2025. Undersecretary for Consular and Administrative Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Dr. Isa Nasser Al Noaimi, attended as the Chief Guest. The event was also graced by Assistant Undersecretary of Domestic and Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Shaikh Hamad bin Salman Al Khalifa; CEO of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), Nebras Talib, along with esteemed guests, well-wishers, and friends of Sri Lanka, including members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, prominent business personalities, and media representatives.
In his remarks, Dr. Al Noaimi extended warm congratulations of the Kingdom of Bahrain for the Independence Day and commended the pivotal role played by the Sri Lankan community in Bahrain in strengthening bilateral ties. He further added that history teaches that a nation thrives not solely because of its past achievements but through its ability to adapt and forge strong partnerships to shape the future, a principle that Sri Lanka has embraced.
Chargé d'Affaires Madhuka Silva reflected on Sri Lanka’s resilience since gaining independence in 1948, highlighting its commitment to diversity, peace, and progress in her inspiring speech. She also expressed her gratitude to the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain for its goodwill, support, and meticulous care extended to both the Embassy and the Sri Lankan community in Bahrain. She underscored Bahrain’s role as an important bilateral partner of Sri Lanka in terms of trade, tourism, and foreign employment.
The event also featured a traditional dance performance showcasing Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage, along with a video presentation highlighting Sri Lanka’s tourist attractions, trade, and investment opportunities. The celebration concluded with guests enjoying Ceylon tea provided by Dilma, followed by a splendid Sri Lankan dinner, fostering camaraderie and affection among attendees.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Manama
10 February 2025
