On the occasion of celebrating Sri Lanka’s 63rd Independence Day, an official ceremony was held at the chancery premises  on 4th February morning with the participation of over 400 Sri Lankan nationals  and well-wishers. Sheikh Jaber Al-Hamoud Al-Jabr Al-Sabah graced the occasion participating as the chief guest. A special feature of this year’s ceremony was the enthusiasm and unity shown by all Sri Lanka associations in Kuwait. The event commenced with the hoisting of the national flag amidst the sound of magul bera followed by the recital of the national anthem.  The ceremonial oil lamp was lit thereafter, followed by the observance of a 02-minutes silence in honour of national heroes.

The dignitaries belonging to Buddhist, Hindu, Islam and Catholic faiths vis. Mr. Nalin de silva, Mr.A.Dharmalingam Rajah, Mr.Manil Joseph Perera and Mr.Muneer Mulafer respectively conducted multi-religious observances and invoked blessings on President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the government and people of Sri Lanka and prayed for a peaceful and prosperous future for all.   The National Day messages of the President, the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister were read out in all 03 languages following which the Charge D’ Affairs delivered a speech.

Speaking on the occasion Charge d’ Affairs Mr.Sunil Premaratna 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 the need of unity and support of the Sri Lankan community to accelerate the progress  of the President Rajapaksa’s vision to develop Sri Lanka.

Charge d’ Affairs also paid his gratitude to the Sri Lankan community in Kuwait for their commitment and dedication toward their motherland which is amply demonstrated by their generosity in kind and deed toward the needy people.  He also acknowledged that the Sri Lankan community has given their best to their motherland amidst difficulties they themselves are experiencing in their day to day lives.

He pointed out that 2011 is a special year for Sri Lanka-Kuwait relations as this is the 40th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between the two countries which coincides with the 50th anniversary of independence, 20th anniversary of liberation day of Kuwait and HH the Amir’s 5th Anniversary in power.

More than 65 pieces of arts drawn by children of the Sinhala School of Kuwait and others on Independence of Sri Lanka were also exhibited and winners were awarded prices. All participants were awarded certificates appreciating their contribution to the Independence Day. The official function was followed by cultural performances with the contribution of Sri Lanka associations in Kuwait namely Sri Lanka Culture Association, SOSK, Lankikayo Kala Sansadaya, Sri Lanka Man power Association, IQRA, Sri Lanka Eksath Mithuro, Suba Sahana Eksath Samithiya, Api Sri Lankikayo, and Sri Lanka Sahana Sansadaya. Sound and music were provided by “Nethra” music group.  A group of school girls from the Sri Lanka Cultural School recited “National Anthem” trained by Sandya Kodagoda.

The vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. W.Kahawatta, First Secretary.   The event was compered by Mr. Asela Peiris, with the assistance of Mr. Ameer. Refreshments were served which included traditional milk-rice and sweet meals etc. to the delight of all.