A gathering of approximately 175 Sri Lankan community members attended the Independence Day celebrations held on 4th February at the Sri Lanka High Commission premises in Canberra. The proceedings began with the hoisting of the national flag and playing of the national anthem. Religious dignitaries representing the four main faiths of Sri Lanka were represented at the function and conducted religious observances. A two minute silence was observed for soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in the conflict and this was followed by the lighting of the traditional oil lamp by invitees and representatives of the Sri Lankan community in Canberra. The messages of H E the President, Hon Prime Minister and the Minister of External Affairs were read out on the occasion. Ms Sashikala Premawardhane, Acting High Commissioner addressing the gathering called on Sri Lankan expatriates to contribute to the development of the country. Mr Mark Pierce, Asst. Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and several other representatives of the Department were present for the ceremony. A traditional Sri Lankan dinner was served following the ceremony.
