The 62nd Anniversary of Independence Day Celebration was held at the Chancery premises on 04th February morning with the participation of Sri Lankan nationals. The Embassy also hosted a Reception for the Diplomatic Corps, Members of Parliament, officials of the Swedish Foreign Ministry, members of the civil society, business community and media on 05th February, 2010.
The official ceremony commenced with the hoisting of the national flag amidst ‘Magul Bera’ followed by the recital of the National Anthem and ‘Jaya Mangala Gatha’ by students of the Dharmapradeepa Cultural and Education Foundation of Stockholm. The ceremonial lamp was lit thereafter, followed by the observance of a two minutes silence in memory of national heroes.
The religious dignitaries belonging to Buddhist, Hindu, Islam and Catholic conducted multi-religious observances and invoked blessings on H.E. the President, the Government and the people of Sri Lanka.
The National Day Messages of H.E. the President, Hon. Prime Minister and Hon. Foreign Minister were read by H.E. the Ambassador, Counsellor and Second Secretary (Commercial) respectively.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador welcomed all the Sri Lankans belonging to all communities present on the occasion. Speaking further, H.E. the Ambassador said that all the Sri Lankans were fortunate to celebrate the independence which we gained 62 years ago in a meaningful way as the country had been liberated from the ruthless terrorism which marred the freedom of all Sri Lankans for nearly 37 years. He further elaborated on the vision of H.E. the President of Sri Lanka and his Government to develop the country as the ‘Best country in the World’ with a view to ushering in a bright and prosperous country for all. Ambassador also paid his gratitude to the Sri Lankan community for their commitment and dedication towards their motherland and requested their support in future.
Mr. Sanjeewa Pattiwila, Second Secretary (Commercial) addressing the gathering introduced the ‘Uthuru Mithuru Railway Link’ Project which was initiated by the Government. He further sought generous contributions of the Sri Lankan community for this worthy cause. As an initial step, tickets were sold to those who were present on the occasion.
Mr. S.B. Wijekoon, Counsellor delivered the vote of thanks.
At the end of the ceremony refreshments which included traditional milk rice and short eats, etc were served.
Diplomatic Reception
A Diplomatic Reception for the Diplomatic Corps, Members of Parliament, officials of the Swedish Foreign Ministry, members of the civil society, business community and media was held at the Chancery premises in the evening of Friday, 05th February, 2010. About 200 guests participated in the Reception. ‘National Day Supplements’ prepared by the Embassy and tourism brochures were distributed to the distinguished guests.
Embassy of Stockholm
Sweden
06-02-2010
