The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington D.C. commemorated the 78th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence on 4 February 2026 at the Sri Lanka Residence, with the participation of U.S. officials, the Sri Lankan community members and friends of Sri Lanka, under the theme “Rebuilding Sri Lanka”.
The ceremony opened with the hoisting of the National Flag by Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the United States, while the national anthem of Sri Lanka was rendered in Sinhala. In keeping with Sri Lanka’s long-standing tradition of religious harmony, multi-faith religious observances were conducted by religious leaders representing Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, and Christian faiths. The proceedings included the ceremonial lighting of the traditional oil lamp and collective remembrance in honor of national heroes who fought for Sri Lanka’s freedom and independence, as well as all those who lost their lives, remain missing, as a result of Cyclone ‘Ditwah.’
Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe while addressing the gathering highlighted the importance of the contribution of the Sri Lankan community in the U.S. in rebuilding the country. Ambassador further added that ‘rebuilding Sri Lanka’ is not only rebuilding physical assets and restoring livelihoods destroyed by cyclone Ditwah but encompasses many other facets such as continuation of good governance, strengthening of democratic values rule of law and ensuring transparency, accountability and the independence of key institutions charged with these responsibilities. The Ambassador concluded by asking everyone to be committed towards protecting and nurturing the diversity that is Sri Lanka’s greatest strength.
Ambassador appreciated the support extended to Sri Lanka by the United States in times of need, and made reference to the spontaneous support extended during the Tsunami and the recent cyclone Ditwah. The Ambassador referred to the U.S. as a true and sincere friend of Sri Lanka.
Ms. Bethany Poulos Morrison, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of South and Central Asia of the United States Department of State, while speaking on behalf of the U.S. government, extended her congratulations and reaffirmed the commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations and acknowledged the continued support provided by the United States toward rebuilding Sri Lanka and its economic recovery. She added that “Sri Lanka’s resilience during the recent cyclone Ditwah is an example to the world” and appreciated Sri Lanka’s support during the wildfires in California in 2025.
The ceremony concluded with the rendition of the National Anthem in Tamil, underscoring Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and linguistic diversity. Following the formal proceedings, guests were invited to enjoy refreshments featuring an array of traditional Sri Lankan delicacies and Ceylon Tea, offering a taste of the island’s vibrant culinary heritage.
Among the attendees were senior officials from the State Department, the White House, Department of War, U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Army, U.S. International Development Cooperation (DFC) and International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The Embassy of Sri Lanka extends its sincere appreciation to all those who attended and contributed to the success of this commemorative event, making it meaningful and memorable.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington DC
6 February 2026
