Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ The 76th National Independence Day celebration unfolded with pride and grandeur at Galle Face Colombo, embodying a renewed dedication to the theme of “Let’s Build a New Country.” Accordingly, President Ranil Wickremesinghe presided over the event, which was graced by the presence of the Prime Minister of Thailand, Hon. Srettha Thavisin. Additionally, global leaders, including His Holiness Pope Francis and King Charles III also conveyed their heartfelt wishes to the president on the special day.
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The Independence Day celebrations started with the Sri Lankan Army signaling the president’s arrival through trumpet calls. Accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff, Commanders of the three armed forces, and the Acting Inspector General of Police, President Wickremesinghe was escorted to the main flagpole. The president then hoisted the national flag in the midst of the beats of auspicious drums and the sound of conch. Subsequent to the flag-raising ceremony, the President joined a dedicated stage where 100 students melodiously sang the National Anthem.
Furthermore, 25 schoolgirls also performed Jaya Mangala Gatha and the auspicious chant “Devo Vassathu Kalena.” A moment of silence was also observed to pay tribute to the Sri Lankans who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The ceremony further progressed with a 21-gun salute, which was followed by a spirited Independence Day parade featuring the Tri-forces, Police, Civil Defence Force, and National Cadet Corps, presenting Sri Lanka as a sovereign state. The parade also showcased the nation’s strength and magnanimity, featuring personnel from the Army, Navy, Air, Police, Civil Security Department, and the National Cadet Corps.
Further, combat vehicles from the three armed forces, including 22 retired officers and 29 disabled soldiers, were part of the parade. The cultural parade infused musical splendor into the event. President Wickremesinghe’s notable presence on the special stage until the parade’s conclusion highlighted his respect for all the war heroes in attendance. The festivities also featured an impressive air show, with F7 aircraft showcasing Sri Lanka’s air power, alongside a showcase of naval strength. Additionally, a parachute show with thirty paratroopers from the armed forces and police made the festivities more special.
Furthermore, the congratulatory messages from global leaders, including His Holiness Pope Francis, His Majesty King Charles III of the UK, His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito of Japan, President Joe Biden of the United States, President Vladimir Putin of Russia, President Xi Jinping of China, President Yun Suk Yeol of South Korea, President Droupadi Murmu of India, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore, President of Libya Dr. Mohamed Y. AL-Menfi, Governor General of Australia General David Hurley, along with the President of Pakistan, President of Bangladesh, Amir of the State of Kuwait, and other prominent leaders, highlighted the global significance of the event.
The celebration also saw the presence of the Maha Sangha and religious leaders, Prof. Maithree Wickramasinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Cabinet Ministers, State Ministers, Provincial Governors, Members of Parliament, Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand Phumtham Wechayachai, and the delegation from Thailand, including foreign Ambassadors & High Commissioners. Other prominent attendees were the Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, Secretary to the President Mr. Saman Ekanayake, Secretary to the Prime Minister, and various government officials and war heroes. Overall, the 76th Independence Day celebration in Sri Lanka stood as a glorious manifestation of national pride, unity, and resilience, signifying a collective commitment to establishing a new and prosperous future.
