The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Romania celebrated the 78th Independence Day on, February 4, 2026 at the Embassy premises in Bucharest.
In keeping with tradition, the ceremony began with the hoisting of the national flag by Chargé d’Affaires, Ms. Prarthana Kaushalya Govinda, followed by the singing of the national anthem. A two-minute silence was observed to honor the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for Sri Lanka's freedom and to remember the victims of the Ditwah cyclone.
Religious observances were conducted by Buddhist monks and representatives from Catholic and Islamic faiths, offering blessings for the well-being of Sri Lanka and its people. This was followed by the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, with participation from religious leaders, Embassy staff, members of the Sri Lankan community, and representatives from a Romanian travel magazine.
National Independence Day messages from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath were read in Sinhala, Tamil, and English by Embassy staff.
Addressing the gathering Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy underscored Sri Lanka's recent economic progress and elaborated on the Government's ongoing recovery efforts to address the challenges paused by Cyclone DITWA. Further she emphasized Sri Lanka’s dedication to deepening bilateral ties and fostering stronger people-to-people connections with Romania, particularly in the areas of employment, trade, and education.
The event also featured a promotional video showcasing Ceylon tea, prominent tourist destinations, the Expo Sri Lanka 2026, and initiatives under the Rebuild Sri Lanka program..
Following the formal proceedings, attendees were hosted to a traditional breakfast with Sri Lankan delicacies and Ceylon tea, accompanied by commemorative souvenirs to mark the occasion.
The event was attended by religious dignitaries, members of the Sri Lankan community, and friends of Sri Lanka in Romania and the Embassy staff.
Embassy of Sri Lanka in Bucharest
11 February 2026
