The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai organized the 66th Independence Day Anniversary on 4th of February 2014 in the Mission premises, amidst a large gathering of Sri Lankans living in Dubai and Northern Emirates.
The country’s national flag was hosted by Abdul Raheem, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai. This was followed by singing of the national anthem, lighting of the traditional oil lamp, and reading messages of H.E. President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Hon.Prime Minister D. M. Jayaratne and Hon. External Affairs Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris, which were read in English, Tamil and Sinhala. Two minutes of silence was also observed in honor of national heroes. Buddhist, Hindu, Islam and Christian religious dignitaries including Ven. Harispaththuwe Shaddah Vimuktha Thero, Kurukkal Devanand Mahadeva, Moulavi Riaz, Rev Dr. Ruwan Palapathwala blessed the Nation and the people of Sri Lanka in Dubai.
In his speech, the Consul General Abdul Raheem mentioned that UAE and Sri Lanka relations have further strengthened with the visit of H.E. the President of Sri Lanka to UAE and with one to one meeting with His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai. In addition, the First Joint Commission Meeting held in January 2014 was led by Foreign Ministers of both countries where various issues were brought up by both delegations and also agreed to collaborate and work together to achieve new targets.
Members of the Business Council, community leaders, and a large group of Sri Lankan expats attended the function despite it being a busy working day in Dubai. In addition to a feast of traditional delicacies prepared by Sri Lankan chefs, a live authentic Sri Lankan band played patriotic music at the end of the program.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka
Dubai & Northern Emirates
5th February 2014
