Ranaviru Commemoration Day celebrated in Beijing

(June 09, Beijing, Sri Lanka Guardian) The Sri Lankan community living in China together with Sri Lanka Embassy in Beijing paid tribute to the fallen war heroes on "Ranaviru Commemoration Day"on 7th June 2009 at the Embassy Premises. The event began with the hoisting of National Flag and singing of the National Anthem followed by religious ceremonies. A two minute silence was observed in honour of the war heroes who had sacrificed their lives over the past three decades in the fight against terrorism and the invitees placed floral tributes and lit
candles at the monument specially designed in commemoration of the fallen heroes.

Venerable Kanaththegoda Saddharathana thero who conducted the Buddhist religious observances at the Commemoration Ceremony, stated the importance of not forgetting the invaluable service rendered and sacrifices made by the members of the armed forces, even after the war has come to an end and requested the Sri Lankans to make every effort to respect each other's differences in building a peaceful Sri Lanka.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Amunugama stressed on the historic importance of this year's Ranaviru Commemoration Day, as the dreams of the war heroes have finally become a reality today. While emphasizing that the astute leadership of the President Mahinda Rajapakse has been the decisive factor in this historic victory, the Ambassador called on everyone
to work towards the common goal of rebuilding the nation to make it a better place for all Sri Lankans to live in harmony, leaving aside all ethnic differences.

A large gathering of Sri Lankans including students and officials of armed forces who are following training programmes in Beijing were present at the event.

-Sri Lanka Guardian