The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Brasilia celebrated Sinhala and Tamil New Year on 12th April, 2013 at the official residence of H.E. the Ambassador. Over 80 guests including Sri Lankans living in Brasilia, large number of Ambassadors and their spouses, Brazilian dignitaries and Brazilian Foreign Ministry officials were participated at the ceremony.
After lighting the traditional oil lamp, Ambassador H.E. Mr. Raja A. Edirisuriya explained that celebrating New Year in April represents the end of the paddy harvest season and a time for everyone in Sri Lanka to enjoy themselves with their loved ones. Referring to the New Year message of His Excellency Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, the Ambassador stated that, now H.E. the President wishes to strengthen peace among all communities in the country to develop the Island. Further, the Ambassador briefed the gathering on the efforts made by H.E. the President and the Government of Sri Lanka to improve infrastructure to uplift the livelihood of all citizens in Sri Lanka. The Ambassador expressed his appreciation to the diplomatic community for their understanding of the problems faced by Sri Lanka and wished to have their continued co-operation in the years to come.
At the end of the ceremony Ambassador served the gathering with traditional sweetmeats Kawum, Mun Kewum, Kokis and Kiribath and a Sri Lankan lunch.
Ambassador also gifted Sri Lankan tea packets to all dignitaries who were participated at the ceremony.
Sri Lanka Embassy
Brazil
