The Embassy and the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka in Vienna marked the 78th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence on 4 February 2026 with the participation of the Sri Lankan community in Austria and the countries to which this Mission is concurrently accredited. The Honorary Consuls of Sri Lanka in Serbia and the Czech Republic also attended.
The event commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by Charge d’ Affairs Mahesh Gunawardana, followed by the singing of the national anthem. A two‑minute silence was observed in remembrance of all Sri Lankans who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The traditional oil lamp was lit, and religious leaders representing Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity invoked blessings on Sri Lanka and its people.
Messages issued by the President, the Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism were read in Sinhala, Tamil and English languages.
In his address, the Charge d’ Affairs reflected on the President’s New Year message, noting that Sri Lanka had made notable progress in year 2025 despite facing significant challenges. He highlighted the significant economic achievements of the Goverenment past year including the lowest budget deficit since 1977, the highest state revenue since 2007, the first ever primary account surplus in our history, an increase in export earnings from goods and services to nearly USD 17 billion and record tourist arrivals.
He also recalled the severe hardships caused by Cyclone Ditwah and expressed deep appreciation for the support extended by the Sri Lankan community overseas in addition to the foreign donors. He conveyed gratitude to Sri Lankans living in Austria and the Mission’s accredited countries for their material and financial contributions, and acknowledged the valuable cooperation of the Honorary Consuls during the relief efforts.
Charge d’Affaires Mahesh Gunawardena further noted that the theme of this year’s Independence Day, “Rebuilding Sri Lanka,” aligns with the national initiative launched on 13 January 2026 to address infrastructure damage caused by the cyclone. He encouraged Sri Lankans and well‑wishers abroad to promote investments in the government’s forthcoming reconstruction projects, emphasizing that this is an important opportunity for the Sri Lankan community overseas to contribute meaningfully to Sri Lanka’s recovery and long‑term development.
A traditional dance performance by members of the Nartakah Dancing Academy in Vienna added a cultural highlight to the event.
The ceremony concluded with the singing of the national anthem in Tamil, after which a Sri Lankan buffet lunch was served to all attendees.
Embassy and the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka
Vienna
10 February 2026
