The Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in the Russian Federation celebrated Sri Lanka’s 66th Independence Day on 4th February 2014 with the participation of a large number of Sri Lankans, diplomatic community, prominent political and business leaders of Russia. The celebrations on the 4th February commenced with the Ambassador H. E. Mr. Udayanga Weeratunga hoisting the National Flag and singing the National Anthem. The participants observed a two minute silence in honour of all those who sacrificed their precious lives for the unity of Sri Lanka. This was followed by religious observances by Buddhist, Hindu, Christian and Islamic faiths to invoke blessings on Sri Lanka and its people. Then the Ambassador read the Independence Day message of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President. Messages of Hon. Dr. D. M. Jayaratne, Prime Minister and Hon. G. L. Peiris, Minister of External Affairs were read by Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister Counsellor respectively. The morning events were concluded with offering of alms to the clergy present at the celebrations.
In the evening of the 5th February, the Mission hosted a reception for over 200 guests at the chancery. Honourable Mr. Igor Vladimirovich Morgulov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. This event was well attended by the members of the diplomatic corps with the presence of 22 Ambassadors. Other attendees included members of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Tea and Business Community, Sri Lankans living in Moscow and the staff.
Addressing the august gathering the His Excellency Udayanga Weeratunga spoke on the subjects of gaining and upholding of independence, the policy frame of the government, the commitment of the government in implementing the recommendations of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Committee, post conflict infrastructure development of the country, development of the tourism industry and the efforts of the Embassy in promoting the Sri Lankan Tourism Industry in the CIS region and diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation and the CIS countries.
The address of the Ambassador was followed by the speech of the Chief Guest. Honorable Murgulov in his speech, having thanked the Ambassador for the invitation and very informative presentation, congratulated the President and the people of the country on the occasion of the commemoration of the 66th Independence Day. He noted that last year, at the reception of the 65th Anniversary of Independence, he was much impressed by the post conflict developments and today; it is more impressive to note the rapid development of the country during the year 2013. He also stated that the bilateral and diplomatic relations between two nations are very cordial, friendly and stable. Whilst noting that Sri Lanka has always been a reliable partner in the region, he said that Russia and Sri Lanka share common views on important and main international agendas.
At the conclusion of formalities all present were served with traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and tea. All guests were presented with a gift pack arranged by the Embassy.
