Sri Lanka Celebrates the National Day in Beijing

The National Day of Sri Lanka was celebrated on 4th February at the Embassy of premises in Beijing with the participation of Sri Lankans and Chinese well wishers.   A live telecast of HE the President’s address to the nation from Kataragama was brought to the audience as a special feature of the event in Beijing through inter-net facilities taking advantage of the two and a half hour time difference between Beijing and Sri Lanka. 

The ceremony in Beijing, began with the hoisting of the National flag to the playing of the national anthem and observing of a two minutes silence in commemoration of the patriots of the nation who had sacrificed their lives to protect and preserve freedom and the territorial integrity of the country.   This was followed by the lighting of the oil lamp and religious observations, particularly by the Chinese Buddhist clergy of the Lingguang Temple invoking blessings on the country.  The Independence Day messages of the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister were read out and copies were distributed amongst the invitees. 

Ambassador Amunugama, in his speech noted the historical importance of this year with political stability and peace firmly instilled in the country.  He noted with appreciation the assistance extended by the  Chinese Government in the construction of the much needed infrastructure facilities in Sri Lanka.   He called upon the Sri Lanka Diaspora to join hands with the Chinese people in assisting the rebuilding process of the nation, to reap the benefits of peace through a new economic resurgence in the country fashioned in an equitable and a fair manner for every Sri Lankan. 

He explained of the socio- economic development process underway in the country based on the Mahinda – Chinthana Policy Document and encouraged the Chinese entrepreneurs to consider Sri Lanka as their next investment destination.  Upon conclusion of the official ceremony, the Ambassador treated everybody to a sumptuous lunch at his residence. 

On account of the national day of Sri Lanka and the 54th year of establishing Diplomatic Relations between the two countries Sri Lanka will be presented to the Chinese people as the emerging wonder of Asia through a Sri Lanka evening organized by the Embassy together with the promotional agencies on 10th  March 2011 at the Grand Hyatt in Beijing.  The targeted audience will be the Chinese high Officials, Business and Tourism Community, Diplomats, Chinese Friends and the expatriate Sri Lankans.  

Embassy of Sri Lanka
Beijing