The 66th Independence Day of Sri Lanka was celebrated at the Representative Office of Sri Lanka in the State of Palestine on 4th February 2014 with the participation of Sri Lankan community and the well wishers in the State of Palestine.
The auspicious ceremony started with the hoisting of the National Flag by Mr. Siraj Ahamed, Attaché, amidst the playing of Magul Bera, followed by the singing of the National Anthems of Sri Lanka and Palestine, lighting of the traditional Oil Lamp and the religious observances.
His Excellency, Ambassador Dr. Mazen Shameyyeh, Head of Asia and Africa Sectors of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Palestine, was the Chief Guest at this occasion.
Mr. Siraj Ahamed, Attaché in his welcome speech highlighted the long standing solidarity and friendship between Sri Lanka and Palestine. He also mentioned the historical visit of H. E. the President to the State of Palestine last month. He further said that His Excellency the President was awarded the highest award of “Star of Palestine” by H. E. President Mahmoud Abbas during his visit is a reflection of the strong bonds of friendship, solidarity and goodwill between His Excellency President Mahinda Rajapaksa and the State of Palestine. Mr. Ahamed also explained the development activities taking place in Sri Lanka. He also thanked for the cooperation extended by Palestinian Business Community, Travel Agents & Palestine-Sri Lanka Friendship Society.
Ambassador Dr. Mazen Shameyyeh, in his speech, conveyed the greetings and best wishes to H. E. the President and the people of Sri Lanka. He also spoke about the continued support of H. E. the President to the Palestinian cause. He further said that signing of two Memorandums of Understanding and opening of Mahinda Rajapaksa Vocational Training Centre during the visit of H. E. the President to the State of Palestine will further enhance the relationship between the two countries.
The Independence Day Messages of H. E. the President, Hon. Prime Minister and Hon. Minister of External Affairs were read.
Mayor of Beitunia, Chief of Protocol and Protocol Officers of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Palestine, Members of the Chamber of Commerce, President and members of the Palestine-Sri Lanka Friendship Society, well-wishes and Sri Lankan workers in Ramallah & Nablus also participated in the occasion.
The event concluded with the refreshments which included traditional food items of Sri Lanka.
