72nd anniversary of Sri Lanka’s independence celebrated in Geneva

The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations (UN) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in Geneva marked the 72nd anniversary of Sri Lanka’s independence at a solemn ceremony held on 4 February at the World Intellectual Property Office (WIPO) premises in Geneva.

The event, attended by a large gathering of members of the Sri Lankan community in Switzerland, commenced with hoisting of the National Flag and singing of the National Anthem, followed by observing two minutes of silence for patriots who laid down their lives to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. 

Following the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, multi-religious observances were conducted. Ven. Thawalama Dhammika Thero of Geneva International Buddhist Centre, Ven. Halyale Wimalarathana Thero of International Buddhist Foundation and Ven. Karuwalagaswewa Anuruddha Thero of Zurich Buddhist Vihara invoked blessings according to the Buddhist religious tradition. Rev. Uma Shankar Kurukkal conducted the Hindu religious observances while A.M. Zawahir conducted the Islamic religious observances and Rev. Father Paul Friel along with Rev. Sister Philo Jesudasan conducted the Christian religious observances.

The Independence Day messages of the President, the Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Relations were read out at the ceremony. The welcome address was delivered by Actg. Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva Dayani Mendis, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the WTO Ambassador Gothami Silva.

The event concluded with a traditional Sri Lankan dinner and Sri Lankan music for the participating community members.