The 74th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka was celebrated at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Beijing, with the participation of the Embassy staff, their family members, the Sri Lanka community and a distinguished Chinese visitor, Dr. Fu Gao. 

The programme commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by the Ambassador, Dr. Palitha Kohona, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Subsequently, two minutes silence was observed in remembrance of Sri Lanka’s heroes who scarified their lives for the country’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The traditional oil lamp was lit by the Ambassador, Embassy staff and the Sri Lanka community members. This was followed by religious observances conducted by six Buddhist monks from the Lingguan temple, led by the Most Venerable Shi Chang Zang Thero, Vice President of Buddhist Association of China with five other monks. 

The Independence Day message of H.E. the President, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, was screened. Addressing the gathering, the Ambassador, Dr. Kohona, stated that Sri Lanka has been successful in vaccinating 85% of the population. He thanked for the support extended by China, in particular, for the vaccination drive. The Ambassador said that the challenges faced by the economy, though serious, would be overcome soon. He recalled the successful eradication of terrorism in Sri Lanka by the Sri Lanka Armed Forces when many believe that it would be impossible. In a similar spirit, the Ambassador hoped that the challenges posed by the Covid-19 also would be won.  

The Ambassador invited Chinese friends to visit Sri Lanka when the Chinese border controls are relaxed. He invited Chinese investors to consider Sri Lanka as their preferred destination for investments. Referring to the bilateral trade, the Ambassador said that Sri Lanka has many more routes through which to enter the lucrative Chinese market. 

The Ambassador called on the staff of the Embassy, despite the challenges and scarcity of the resources, to work towards achieving the goals of the government. He further said that it was the responsibility of the staff of the Embassy to work hard and support the country in its endeavors.   

The event was concluded with all the guests being treated to Sri Lankan delicacies. 

Embassy of Sri Lanka

Beijing 

07.02.2022