The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Italy in collaboration with the Sri Lankan community celebrated the 76th Anniversary of the Independence of Sri Lanka in Rome on 04 February 2024 at the Embassy premises. This momentous occasion was commenced with the hoisting of the national flag by Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Italy Jagath Wellawatte while playing magulbera followed by singing of the National Anthem. A two-minutes silence was observed in honour of all the national heroes and heroines who had sacrificed their lives for the motherland.
Multi-faith religious observances were led by chief incumbent of Rome Sri Bodhi Vihara, Shasthravedhi Ven. Bandirippuwe Vinithatissa thero and Rev. Father Ruchira Nuwan, Rev. Father Dominian Fransis Fernando and Brother Romesh Siemon. Buddhist and Catholic damma sermons were conducted by Ven. Shasthrapathi Rajakeeya Panditha Ven. Liyanwala Uditha Thero and Rev. Father Ruchira Nuwan.
The traditional oil lamp was lit by the Ambassador, Deputy Chief of Mission, Honorary Consuls of Sri Lanka in Albania, Cyprus, Greece and Italy, pupils of Siduhath Damma School, and the representatives of the Sri Lankan community. The National Day messages of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry were read out in Sinhala, Tamil and English languages at the event.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Wellawatte highlighted the activities carried out by the Embassy and its achievements in the bilateral and multilateral relations during the past year. Counsellor of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Rome Buddhika Herath briefed on the Office for Overseas Sri Lankan Affairs (OOSLA). The Pupils of Siduhath Damma School of Rome, Shakyamuni Viharaya performed patriotic songs at the event.
The flag-hoisting ceremony concluded by offering alms giving to Buddhist and catholic priests and refreshments for the other all participants at the Embassy premises.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Rome
09 February 2024
