Ven. Members of the Maha Sangha,
Reverend Clergy of other faiths,
Hon. Prime Minister,
Hon. Speaker,
Hon. Ministers and Members of Parliament,
Hon. Governors,
Your Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
My Dear Friends,
As we celebrate this 67th anniversary of the dawn of Independence, after nearly two centuries as a nation subject to colonial rule, it is most fortunate that I am able to address you at this historic city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, today.
This occasion is of special significance because we commemorate the dawn of freedom at a time coincident with the taking of clear and resolute steps to firmly establish democracy and good governance, the Rule of Law, and a truly meaningful parliamentary system; to establish a long lasting and stable structure of good governance in keeping with the mandate given by the people at the recent presidential election.
