The Sri Lanka High Commission in the United Kingdom celebrated the 76th Independence Day with a series of events spanning several days, embracing the nation's rich cultural and religious diversity.
The commemoration began with religious ceremonies, starting with the Independence Day celebrations on 02 February organized by the Sri Lanka Muslim Cultural Centre in association with the Council of Sri Lankan Muslim Organizations (COSMOS) in UK. This was followed by Hindu and Buddhist religious ceremonies on 03 February. An Evensong Church Service took place at Westminster Abbey on 09 February.
The traditional Independence Day Commemoration took place on 04 February at the High Commission premises, bringing together clergy across the faiths, all sections of the Sri Lankan community, friends, and well-wishers. The programme of the day included reading of the National Day messages of the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka, the observing of two minutes silence in honour of all those who sacrificed their lives for the motherland, religious observances by clergy of all four faiths, and the singing of the national anthem. Around 200 members of the Sri Lankan community attended the event. Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom Rohitha Bogollagama expressed profound pride in the remarkable success and flourishing well-being of the Sri Lankan diaspora in the United Kingdom.
The High Commission hosted a reception commemorating the 76th Independence Day at the Landmark Hotel on 05 February. The Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle was the Chief Guest at the reception. The event was graced by esteemed guests, and friends of Sri Lanka including members of the diplomatic corps, peers and Members of the Parliament, prominent business personalities and Sri Lankan community members.
High Commissioner Rohitha Bogollagama conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for the enthusiastic participation and unwavering support received from all segments of society in commemorating this momentous milestone in Sri Lanka's history. He underscored the substantial presence of the Sri Lankan diaspora in the UK and highlighted their significant contributions to various sectors including education, business, and healthcare. He also emphasized Britain's role as a remarkable host for the thriving Sri Lankan diaspora community.
The Sri Lanka High Commission remains committed to foster cultural understanding, unity, and cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom.
Sri Lanka High Commission
London
12 February 2024
