Stand united to fight fallacies against your motherland: Jaliya

Saturday, 22 February 2014 09:31 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Washington, DC: A historic opportunity has arrived for the sons and daughters of Sri Lanka living in the United States to support their motherland, says Jaliya Wickramasuriya, the Sri Lankan Ambassador to the US. Addressing nearly 1,000 Sri Lankan-Americans gathered at the auditorium of the University of District of Columbia on 8 February, the Ambassador expressed that their solidarity with Sri Lankan people is needed more than ever at this important time

in Sri Lanka’s history. “Sri Lankan-Americans, we need your continued help to explain the correct positive story of our country, because all of our voices together can make a difference,” he said. “Each and every one of you can offer critical support to Sri Lanka, because you are Ambassadors of Goodwill for your country.” The Ambassador made these remarks delivering the keynote address at the celebration of the 66th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka organised by the Sri Lanka Embassy, Washington DC. Speaking further, the Ambassador noted that due to terrorism Sri Lankans were denied the most basic human right – the right to life without fear, for three long decades. He added that under the visionary leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa the country has been able to rid itself from terrorism and to achieve rapid development. “Today the greatest national interest of our country is to further strengthen this peace and stability. Our people and the Government of Sri Lanka have a clear vision and we are determined to reconcile and to build a peaceful and prosperous nation,” he added. Ambassador Wickramasuriya underscored that Sri Lanka has already taken concrete steps toward this end and expects support and understanding for the reconciliation process from the international community. The Ambassador thanked the artistes of Channa-Upuli Performing Arts Foundation who were visiting the US on their own

expense accepting his invitation to perform at the Embassy events to mark the Independence Day of Sri Lanka. He also congratulated the young artistes from the community who performed in the cultural show that evening. The celebration commenced with a group of nearly 50 Sri Lankan-American children singing the national anthem of Sri Lanka followed by the US national anthem sung by Anjalika Silva. One minute of silence was observed to remember the war heroes who sacrificed their lives to bring peace to Sri Lanka. The Jayamangala Gatha were sung by a group of young Sri Lankan-American girls followed by the lighting of the traditional oil lamp by the Ambassador and the guests. Chief Incumbent of Washington Buddhist Vihara Venerable Maharagama Dhammasiri Nayake Thero and Chief Incumbent of Maryland Buddhist Vihara Venerable Katugastota Uparatana Nayake Thero conducted Buddhist religious observances. Kanaga Ranganathan, Naseer Azeez and Dr. Greg Fernandopulle invoked blessings according to Hindu, Islam and Christian traditions respectively. The President’s Independence Day message was read by Bandula Somasiri, the Minister Commercial of the Embassy. Co-chair of the Congressional Sri Lanka Caucus, Congressman Robert Aderholt, and Chief Minister of North-Western Province of Sri Lanka Dayasiri Jayasekara addressed the audience as guest speakers. The two-hour cultural spectacle featured the repertoire of the renowned Channa- Upuli dance troupe including percussionist Jananath Warakagoda and violinist Ruwan Weerasekara. The students of Sri Lankan-American choreographers Nisha Niroshini,

Chathuri Wickramarachchi and Asanga Domask also displayed their talents in astounding dancing performances. Senior US officials, diplomatic dignitaries, and a large number of friends of Sri Lanka in the US joined the Sri Lankan-American community members to witness the grand celebration. Pix by Sagara Lakmal De Mel