The 76th Anniversary of Sri Lanka's Independence was celebrated by the Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra on 04 February 2024 at the High Commission premises with the participation of the Sri Lankan community in Canberra.
The programme commenced with hoisting the National flag by Sri Lanka High Commissioner Chitranganee Wagiswara, followed by the singing of the national anthem. A two minute silence was observed in honour of all the national heroes and members of the armed forces who had sacrificed their lives to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the motherland.
Multi-faith religious observances were conducted by the clergy of all four religions bestowing blessings upon Sri Lanka and its people. Chief Incumbent of the Canberra Buddhist Vihara, Venerable Aparelle Soratha Thero conducted the Buddhist religious observances followed by Reverend Jai Shanker of Canberra Hindu Temple who conducted the Hindu observances. Islamic religious observances were conducted by Al-haj Mohomed Ashroff and Christian prayers were delivered by Pastor Reverend Manoel Niles.
The National Day messages of the President, Prime Minister, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs were read by the High Commissioner, Deputy High Commissioner and the Minister of the High Commission respectively.
Addressing the gathering, the High Commissioner stated that political freedom alone is not sufficient for the country’s development. For true freedom the economy of Sri Lanka has to be strong. Hence, Sri Lanka’s priority today is to focus on the reform process for economic growth and to work towards the prosperity for the country and the people. Further she highlighted the three main points of the President’s message; the need to stabilise the economy of our country, the rebuilding programme in place towards economic stability and the need to learn from past mistakes as well as encouraging all Sri Lankans at home and abroad to collectively contribute to rebuild the nation.
The ceremony concluded with serving of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and invitees were enjoyed the flavours of a warm cup of Ceylon tea.
Sri Lanka High Commission
Canberra
08 February 2024
