Sri Lankans living in the Republic of Korea gathered in Seoul to celebrate the 76th A
nniversary of Independence at an event organized by the Embassy of Sri Lanka.
The event commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Savitri Panabokke which was followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Those gathered at the event then observed two minutes of silence in memory of all Sri Lankans who had sacrificed their lives to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of their motherland.
To mark this auspicious occasion, the traditional oil lamp was lit by the Ambassador, Sri Lanka’s Honorary Consuls in South Gyeongsangnam do and Busan, Seo Min-jai and Beung-gu Hur respectively, Country Manager of Sri Lankan Airlines Dileepa Wijesooriya and official representatives of Bank of Ceylon, People's Bank, National Savings Bank, Sampath Bank who are present in the Republic of Korea. In addition, Sri Lankans representing the diverse sectors of the community, including the business community, professionals, migrant workers, students and children also lit the oil lamp.
Thereafter, multi religious observances were conducted to invoke blessings upon Sri Lanka and her people by the Venerable Maha Sangha and religious dignitaries of the Hindu, Islamic and Christian faiths.
The National Day messages of the President Ranil Wickremesighe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardhana and Minister of Foreign Affairs M.U.M.Ali Sabry were read by Second Secretary Sachini Dias, Minister Counselor (Commercial) Chandima Abeyrathna and, Attache of the Embassy Gayani Abeykoon, respectively.
Addressing the gathering the Ambassador congratulated all Sri Lankans celebrating the 76th Anniversary of Independence and highlighted the significance of this momentous occasion. She recalled the important role and scarifies made by Sri Lankan heroes from historical times to date, to safeguard the motherland's sovereignty and territorial integrity. She also paid tribute to all Sri Lankans who made immense contributions to safeguard the country and the people during critical times, including all health sector workers who risked their lives to save citizens during the recent covid-19 pandemic.
The Ambassador conveyed her appreciation to expatriate Sri Lankans, particularly the Sri Lankan community in South Korea, who helped the country by remitting their earnings during recent economic crisis. She thanked them for their assistance to “Build a new Country” in line with the theme of this year’s National Day and their numerous initiatives to promote Sri Lanka in South Korea.
Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage was showcased at the event with the performance of a traditional 'Wes Dance' by a group of talented Sri Lankan workers in the Republic of Korea along with two dance items performed by the children of the Dhamma Schools of the Korea-Sri Lanka Maha Viharaya and Mahamewna Meditation Center and Buddhist Monastery.
The celebration concluded with serving refreshments to all those who participated at the event.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Seoul
06 February 2024
