Sri Lankan Independence Day Celebrated In Bangkok

Sri Lanka's 64th Independence anniversary was celebrated at the residence of the Sri Lankan Ambassador Gen. Shantha Kottegoda with the hoisting of the national flag, the singing of the National Anthem and religious observances.

A representative gathering of persons of Sri Lankan origin working for international organizations, inter-governmental agencies, academic institutions, airlines and in business were present when Ambassador Kottegoda hoisted the national flag and then observed two minutes silence in memory of those who sacrificed their lives or were wounded in the defence of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.

After the lighting of the traditional oil lamp observances were held according to the traditional rites of the four major religions of Sri Lanka to bestow blessings on Sri Lanka.

"The independence we enjoy today is the result of the supreme sacrifice made by our national heroes of all ethnic communities to regain our sovereignty. The freedom we gained in 1948 and which we cherished for several decades was frustrated and obstructed by the terrorist LTTE which waged a secessionist war against our democratically-elected governments for almost three decades," said Ambassador Shantha Kottegoda addressing nearly 200 Sri Lankans gathered for the occasion.

"As we celebrate our freedom we should be mindful of those with vested interests who continue to tarnish the good image of Sri Lanka. It is our hope that the international community will take serious note of the evil designs of the pro-LTTE elements still active in the world outside."

"The cruel and debilitating war was ended in May 2009 when the terrorist movement was annihilated under the leadership of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka enabling Sri Lankans to breathe and enjoy the air of freedom once again."

"As we mark this 64th Anniversary we remember with deep respect and gratitude all those who made the supreme sacrfice in the service of the nation. Their lives were not laid down in vain......We will forever, not forget those gallant soldiers. We salute them as heroes."

After the messages from President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne and the Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris were read, all present were invited to a lunch that this year included traditional Sri Lankan dishes and sweets such as mung kavun, konde kavun and milk toffee.

Bangkok's leading English language newspaper Bangkopk Post and widely circulating Thai language newspaper naewna carried full page supplements to celebrate the occasion. They were published with the advertising support from the Thai-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce.

- Asian Tribune –
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