Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism Vijitha Herath hosted a special dinner reception at Cinnamon Grand for the diplomatic corps in Colombo.

Heads of Missions resident in and concurrently accredited to Sri Lanka, representatives of international organizations based in Colombo and senior government officials were present at the event.

The event was held to mark the 78th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence.

Welcoming the distinguished gathering, Minister Herath highlighted Sri Lanka’s national vision of building “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life”, and its progress to the delegates present.

The Minister also underscored the importance of people-centric development that expands opportunities and ensures inclusive growth.

Minister Herath also made the reception an opportunity to express appreciation for the support of the international community, particularly during recent challenges such as Cyclone Ditwah, and reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s resilience and determination to rebuild with optimism. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Navy conducted its traditional 25-gun salute in honor of the nation’s 78th Independence Day.

The salute was carried out from the Sri Lanka Navy ship SLNS Sayura, stationed off Galle Face Green, under the direction of the Commander of the Navy.

A 25-gun salute—the highest number of rounds in a ceremonial salute—is performed as a mark of national tribute.

The official Independence Day ceremony was held at Independence Square in Colombo earlier today, with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake presiding. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake hoists the national flag as Sri Lanka marks its 78th Independence Day today in Colombo with the national ceremony held at the Independence Square. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka marks its 78th Independence Day today, February 4, under the theme “Rebuilding Sri Lanka.”

The national ceremony commenced at 7:30 a.m. at the Independence Square under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The celebrations honour those who made sacrifices to win independence from British rule in 1948.

“I hold an unshakable faith that by realising in the twenty-first century the dream of a proud nation that was born in the twentieth century but later became blurred, we can build Sri Lanka into the developed, prosperous and virtuous country that our people expect, and thereby certainly create the new era for which we have long aspired. In this endeavour, we place our firm confidence in the strength of all our citizens, in their collective spirit and in their unwavering character,” President Dissanayake said in his Independence Day message.

More than 4,500 personnel from the Security Forces and Police, along with around 400 invitees including foreign diplomats are scheduled to take part in the event.

Meanwhile, a special security and traffic management plant has been implemented, with over 2,000 Police officers deployed across the city to ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow. (Newswire)

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Coinciding with India’s 79th National Independence Day, celebrated today (15), a commemorative event was held in Jaffna to honour the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) soldiers who fought against LTTE militants in Sri Lanka between 1987 and 1990. 

According to the Sri Lanka Army, the ceremony took place in front of the IPKF memorial located in Palaly, Jaffna.

Organized in collaboration between the Jaffna Security Forces Headquarters and the Office of the Consul General of India in Jaffna, the event was attended by Indian Consul General Sri Sai Murali and Commander of the Jaffna Security Forces Headquarters, Major General Rasika Kumara. 

Both officials paid floral tributes in remembrance of the fallen Indian IPKF soldiers.

Officials from the Indian Consulate in Jaffna, senior military officers, and other dignitaries were present at the occasion. (Newswire)

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Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya in her Independence Day message highlighted the need for an inclusive and equitable society where every citizen, regardless of background, has a voice in shaping the nation’s future.

Urging a commitment to deepening democracy, prioritizing economic justice, and uplifting marginalized communities, the Prime Minister called for meaningful action to build a Sri Lanka.

Prime Minister’s Independence Day message

Independence is not just about sovereignty; it is about dignity, justice, and the right to a life free from oppression. Today, as we reflect on our journey, we recognize that true freedom comes from an inclusive and equitable society where every community; regardless of ethnicity, religion, caste, gender or class has an equal stake in shaping this nation and feels valued and respected.

A thriving nation, a beautiful life is not just a vision; it is a call to action. It is a commitment to a Sri Lanka where democracy is deepened, where economic justice is prioritized, and where the voices of the marginalized are not just heard but cantered in decision-making. It is a promise to build a country where every individual feels a sense of belonging and worth.

On this historic day, let us go beyond symbolism and dedicate ourselves to meaningful change; towards a Sri Lanka that truly belongs to all. (Newswire)

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The National Peoples’ Power (NPP) Government has made reductions to the tri-forces and other activities related to the 77th Independence Day celebrations, commemorated on 04 February. 

Addressing the media today, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha said that a 40% reduction has been made to the participation of Army personnel.

He said that only 1273 Army personnel will participate in the Independence Day celebrations this year, which was a reduction of over 1500 officers.

Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha further said that only three Sri Lanka Air Force helicopters will be used during the celebrations, a reduction from the 09 helicopters used last year.

The Secretary to the Ministry of Defence further announced that parades of armoured vehicles will not take place during this year’s Independence Day celebrations.

Stating that armoured vehicles of the tri-forces will not conduct parades, he said only parades by military personnel will take place this year.

Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha said, however, that the mid-sea gun salute by the Sri Lanka Navy will take place as usual, as it was a tradition.

He added that the Sri Lanka Police is tasked with security and traffic measures, as the rehearsals for the 77th Independence Day celebrations have commenced. 

The government has planned to conduct the 77th Independence Day celebrations surrounding the Independence Square in Colombo. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Police will implement special traffic plans from tomorrow (Jan 29) in view of the 77th Independence Day celebrations, to be commemorated on 04th February.

According to the Police, the special traffic arrangements will be in place from tomorrow (Jan 29) until 02 February 2025.

Special traffic plans will be in place from 06.00 am to 12.00 pm during this period surrounding the Independence Square in Colombo.

Motorists have been requested to adhere to the following traffic arrangements;

• Alternative roads to leave Colombo City:

• Roads closed/ traffic restricted

• Alternative roads to enter Colombo City 

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The Colombo Traffic Division has announced special traffic arrangements in view of Sri Lanka’s 77th Independence Day celebrations, marked on 04th February.

According to the Police, rehearsals will be held for the Independence Day celebrations from 29 January to 02 February 2025.

As such, special traffic plans will be in place from 06.00 am to 12.00 pm during this period surrounding the Independence Square in Colombo.

The Police said several roads in the vicinity will be closed in view of the rehearsals and Independence Day celebrations. (Newswire)

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The American Dream isn’t just a dream, but a promise to keep striving, believing, and achieving, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said in her message to mark 248 Years of American Independence, celebrated on July 04th.

In a video message, Ambassador Chung said on Independence Day, “Americans commemorate not just the birth of a nation, but the enduring spirit of unity and freedom that defines us and the U.S.-Sri Lanka partnership.” 

Full statement of US Ambassador Julie Chung : 

248 years ago, nothing was certain about America’s experiment in democracy.  We declared our independence with a bold statement of our principles, aspirations, and vision – “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.  That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” 

But American democracy did not begin and end with this declaration and the creation of a constitution.  Democracy is not static; it is a process, a continued renewal of commitments to fundamental principles.  We continue to wrestle with the meaning of our constitution and to make choices as citizens.   

As President Biden said, one of the strengths of America is the right to free expression and free speech, even when it means raising our voices and criticizing policies we disagree with. We’ve seen protestors across the United States and here in Sri Lanka exercise these rights, advocating for different paths forward.  Though dissent can be challenging, the United States welcomes it. This is the essence of our First Amendment, the right to freedom of expression. 

It takes work to sustain democracy, and at times, it can seem fragile.  But I have no doubt that we Americans will continue strengthening our democracy and pursuing accountability and integrity within our institutions of government.   

As an immigrant to the United States, I have come to deeply appreciate the power and privilege of participating in a democracy, including the right to vote.  But frankly, voting is not just a right; it is a profound responsibility that underscores the essence of freedom in any great nation.  

July 4th also holds special significance for me. When my family moved to America, I didn’t understand why my parents would leave Korea for a land where I didn’t speak the language and where everything was so unfamiliar.  Over time, I began to understand.  I witnessed how, in the United States, with determination and hard work, my parents were able to achieve their dreams.  My father, who started on the drafting floor at an engineering company, eventually designed a system for the space shuttle that allowed NASA to restart manned space missions.  My mother, who began as a dishwasher, rose to become a senior librarian and church deacon.  As someone who has lived the American dream, I am honored to represent the United States abroad.  

As we celebrate today let’s remember that the American Dream isn’t just a dream; it’s a promise to keep striving, believing, and achieving. Today Americans commemorate not just the birth of a nation, but the enduring spirit of unity and freedom that defines us and the U.S.-Sri Lanka partnership.  Here’s to democracy, friendship, and the promise of opportunity.  Happy Independence Day! (Newswire)

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The Archbishop of Colombo, his Eminence, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has slammed Sri Lanka’s Independence Day Celebrations held on Sunday (Feb 04). 

Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith pointed out that holding an Independence Day parade was disrespectful when several people were living in hunger in the country. 

Slamming the government for holding the parade for some foreign dignitaries, the Archbishop questioned if the celebrations were for the people or politicians. 

Sri Lanka’s 76th National Independence Day was celebrated at Galle Face in Colombo under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, as a special guest.

The ceremony included a 21-gun salute followed by the Independence Day parade conducted by the Tri-forces, Police, Civil Defence Force and National Cadet Corps. (NewsWire)

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Four paratroopers have sustained minor injuries during rehearsals for Sri Lanka’s Independence Day Celebrations. 

According to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Spokesman, among the injured paratroopers, two are from the Air Force and two are from the Sri Lanka Army.

They had sustained minor injuries as their parachutes had become entangled during a landing mishap while participating in Independence Day rehearsals today. (NewsWire)

Four paratroopers, two from the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) and two from the Sri Lanka Army, sustained minor injuries as their parachutes became entangled during a landing mishap in Independence Day rehearsal- SLAF Spokesman. pic.twitter.com/TukYQqfJ84

— NewsWire (@NewsWireLK) January 30, 2024

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Sri Lanka Police has announced traffic plans in view of the upcoming Independence Day Celebrations, commemorated on Sunday, February 04, 2024.

Accordingly, Galle Road will be closed for traffic from Colpetty Junction to Galle Face and from Ceramic Junction to Galle Face.

The roads will be closed for traffic from January 29 to February 02 from 6.00 am to 8.30 am and from 11.00 am to 12.30 pm.

The roads will be closed for traffic again from 2.00 pm on February 03 till the Independence Day Ceremony ends on February 04. (NewsWire)

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The Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra, in partnership with the Australian government, arranged the illumination of the iconic Australian National monuments in the colours of the Sri Lankan National flag from the 03rd to the 6th of February 2023.

According to the Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra, the iconic Australian National monuments were illuminated to mark the 75th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence and the 75th Anniversary of the establishment of Diplomatic relations between Australia and Sri Lanka. 

Twelve (12) national monuments from Canberra (The Royal Australian Mint, Old Parliament, and Carillion); Melbourne (Flinders Street Railway Station); Queensland (Parliament, City Hall) and; Perth (Council House and five bridges) were lit up in the Sri Lankan flag colours to mark this historic milestone.

The Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra said in a statement that the illumination of iconic monuments symbolized the longstanding mutually rewarding friendship between Australia and Sri Lanka.

On 04 February, the High Commission commemorated the 75th Anniversary of independence at the Sri Lanka High Commission premises with the participation of the representatives of the Sri Lankan community in Canberra and the officials of the Sri Lanka Tri forces who are presently undergoing training in Australia. The celebration commenced with the flag hoisting ceremony followed by the singing of the national anthem in Sinhala and Tamil languages and multi-faith religious observances.  

Speaking at the occasion, Acting High Commissioner Chamari Rodrigo said Sri Lanka marked a historic milestone for the country in the midst of a myriad of challenges on the economic front. She appealed that, even though the economic situation doesn’t warrant a grand celebration, it is clearly a time to reflect on the post-independence years; rectify our failures and for the citizens to re-dedicate themselves to ensure their country’s well-being for the future.

The Acting High Commissioner also highlighted the enduring bilateral partnership between Australia and Sri Lanka which rests on the strong foundation of people-to-people connectivity and shared values. “The illumination of so many monuments together in the Sri Lankan flag colours, for the first time in Australia, signified 75 years of mutually respectful partnership with Australia which is home to a large Sri Lankan expatriate community. The Sri Lanka High Commission extends its sincere appreciation to Australia for its warm gesture”, she added.

SriLankan Airlines & the Australia – Sri Lanka Association in Canberra (ASLA) supported the illumination project by encouraging the Sri Lankan community to capture the unique moment through photography/videography. SriLankan airlines sponsored a return air ticket to Sri Lanka for the winner of the best photograph.   

The Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra stated that it considers the occasion of lighting up iconic monuments in Australia in Sri Lanka flag colours as momentous and historic. (NewsWire)

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Pics : Yaal Deepan

A hartal has been held in Jaffna today against the 75th Independence Day of Sri Lanka which was commemorated in Colombo.

Several shops were seen closed as part of the hartal which was organized by the students union of the University of Jaffna.

Meanwhile, students of the Jaffna and Batticaloa University have also organized a huge black-flag four-day long march from the Jaffna University to Batticaloa University. 

According to the Daily FT, the march will begin today from Jaffna University and will reach Batticaloa University on 7th February, where a declaration will be made highlighting the issues faced by the Tamils in the North and East.

The student-led protest march will be joined by families of the disappeared, Hindu and Christian religious leaders, Tamil Civil Society groups, Tamil women groups, Tamil trade unions, Tamil farmers and fisheries organisations, and others. (NewsWire)

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President Ranil Wickremesinghe will deliver a special address to the nation today to mark the 75th Independence Day of Sri Lanka.

According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), the President’s special address to the country will be televised at 6.45 PM.

The PMD further stated that the President’s special address to the nation will be televised on all channels. (NewsWire)

President Ranil Wickremesinghe will address the nation on the occasion of the 75th Anniversary of Independence at 6.45 pm today, telecast over all channels – PMD pic.twitter.com/38thC8v2pC

— NewsWire (@NewsWireLK) February 4, 2023

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Independent fact-checking website, Fact Crescendo Sri Lanka has warned the public of fake internet data scams on social media linked to Sri Lanka’s Independence Day celebrations. 

In a Twitter message, Fact Crescendo Sri Lanka requested the public to avoid clicking on ‘Free Data’ scam links and installing unverified apps.

The institution also shared details of a fake data scam which had been circulated in view of the upcoming Independence Day.

Fact Crescendo Sri Lanka warned that such fake scams risk the exposure of individuals’ personal information. (NewsWire)

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