Unity and moral discipline essential to build a country: President

“Even though some section of the society understood the process jointly carried out by two major political parties to develop the country while building national reconciliation, in contrary to that some are trying to spread hatred in the country,” said President Maithripala Sirisena.

He made these remarks participating in a special commemoration ceremony held at the Sarvodaya Headquarters, Moratuwa on 9 November to mark the 85th birthday celebration of Dr. A.T. Ariyaratne, the Founder-President of Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement.

The President pointed out that at all times unity and moral discipline wwere necessary to build a country and the power should always be used for the betterment of the country and its people.

Although many people insult and criticise the word reconciliation, the future of the country lies in the reality of that word, he added.

President Sirisena appreciated the service rendered by Dr. Ariyaratne in building reconciliation in the country. He also presented a memento to Dr. Ariyaratne to mark his 85th birthday celebration.

The commemoration ceremony was organised as ‘Mehewara-Harasara’ and a ‘Mehewara-Harasara’ souvenir was presented to the President during the ceremony. Dr. Ariyaratne also presented a memento to the President.

Ministers and MPs, including Ministers Rajitha Senaratne, Thalatha Athukorala, John Seneviratne and Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Deputy Speaker Thilanga Sumathipala and Deputy Minister Karunaratne Paranavithana participated in this event.