The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Tel Aviv, Isreal celebrated the 72nd Independence Annivarsary of Sri Lanka on 04 February 2020 along with Sri Lankan community in Israel and Israeli well – wishers at the Embassy premises in Tel Aviv.
The celebrations commenced at the Embassy premises following the hoisting of the Sri Lankan National Flag by Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Israel Waruna Wilpatha and the singing of the Sri Lankan National Anthem. A two-minute silence was observed in remembrance of all those who sacrificed their lives to the nation and the traditional oil lamp was lit by distinguished invitees.
Most Venerable Bambarabotuwe Ananda Mangala Thero who is on a visit in Israel conducted the Buddhist religious observances while Hindu blessings were invoked by Mrs. Mohana Rajgopal and Christian blessings were invoked by Rev. Sister Superior Josephin Fernando and Rev. Sister Anusha Fernando of Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help under the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
An excerpt of His Excellency the President’s manifesto “ Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour” and the Independence Day Messages of the Hon. Prime Minister and the Hon. Minister of Foreign Relations, Labour, Foreign Employment and Skills Development were read at the event.
Ambassador Wilpatha addressing the gathering stated that it is the responsibility of all Sri Lankans to safeguard the freedom of our motherland, which was regained through sacrifices made by the national leaders and heroic troops in the past. The contributions made by the migrant workers in Israel towards the economic prosperity of Sri Lanka were also appreciated by the Ambassador.
The event concluded with the serving of traditional Sri Lankan cuisines to the guests by the staff of the Embassy.
