Independence celebrated in Kuwait in grand style

(February 05, Kuwait, Sri Lanka Guardian) On the occasion of celebrating Sri Lanka’s 62nd National Day, an official ceremony was held at the chancery premises on 4th February morning with the participation of over 500 Sri Lankan nationals and well-wishers. As part of the celebrations, the Embassy also hosted a diplomatic reception for the Kuwaiti government leaders, officials, civil society, members of the diplomatic corps, media and members of the Sri Lankan community in Kuwait at a leading hotel.

A special feature of this year’s ceremony was the enthusiasm shown by the diaspora to celebrate the independence in a fitting manner in appreciation of the liberation of motherland from a 03-decade of terrorism. The event commenced with the hoisting of the national flag followed by the singing of the national anthem. The traditional oil lamp was lit thereafter, followed by the observance of a 02-minutes silence in honour of national heroes. The multi-religious observances were conducted to invoke blessings on President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Government and the people of Sri Lanka. The National Day messages of the President, the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister were read out in all 03 languages following which the Ambassador delivered a speech.

Speaking on the occasion Ambassador Sarath Dissanayake appreciated the presence of a large gathering of Sri Lankans belonging to all communities at the independence ceremony as a mark of unity and harmony. Elaborating further he emphasized President Rajapaksa’s vision to develop Sri Lanka as the ‘Wonder of Asia’ under the “Mahinda Chindtana – Forward Vision” with a view to ushering in a bright and prosperous future for all.