The 62nd Anniversary of Independence was commemorated at the residence of the High Commissioner HE Ms. Chitranganee Wagiswara on 4th February 2010. The messages of HE the President, Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs were read by the High Commission staff followed by special religious observances by the Buddhist, Hindu, Islam and Christian clergy who invoked blessings for the peace and prosperity of Sri Lanka and reiterated the need for the Diaspora to put aside all differences and to unite in rebuilding their motherland. Following the official ceremony an alms giving was offered to the priests and other visitors.