63rd Independence Day Celebrations in Canberra

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.

The Acting High Commissioner also hosted the diplomatic corps on 9th February 2011 and approximately 120 Canberra based diplomats, representatives of Departments, members of parliament, and line agencies were present on the occasion. The occasion was graced by Hon Joy Burch, Minister for Multicultural Affairs of the ACT Government, Hon Senator Steve Hutchins, Chair of the Australia-Sri Lanka Parliamentary Group, Hon Don Randall, founder Chair and former Vice Chair of the Australia-Sri Lanka Parliamentary Group and representatives of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of Immigration and Citizenship and AusAID. Traditional Sri Lankan food, including a stall serving hoppers which was very popular with the guests, formed a part of the function.

Sri Lanka High Commission
Canberra

18th  February 2011