Independence Day celebrations in Tokyo
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Japan commemorated the
65th Independence anniversary at the Reiyukai hall in Tokyo on
Monday amid a large gathering of Sri Lankan expatriates and Japanese
officials. Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda was the Chief
Guest on the occasion as Chief Guest of the ceremony.
The ceremony comprised of the lighting of the
traditional oil lamp, rendering of the national anthem and reading
of messages of the President, Prime Minister and Minister of
External Affairs of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Admiral (Rtd.)
WasanthaKarannagoda highlighted the close and friendly relations
that Japan and Sri Lanka have shared over the years recollecting the
support extended to Japan by Sri Lanka at the San Francisco Peace
Conference in 1951 and the establishment of Diplomatic ties in 1952.
Looking back at 60 years of diplomatic relations today, Japan
supports Sri Lanka as one of the single largest donors to the
country with financial assistance extended to the country in the
short, medium and long term. Ambassador Admiral Karrannagoda
stressed that the cordial and close support from Japan has greatly
assisted Sri Lanka in its reconstruction and development following
the end of 30 decades of LTTE terrorism.
Former Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka and
current President of Japan-Sri Lanka Association Isamu Nitta also
addressed the gathering.
All attendees were treated to a breakfast of
traditional Sri Lankan food and entertained by cultural dance
performances by members of the Sri Lanka Students' Association in
Japan.
Courtesy : Daily News |
