SRI LANKAN HIGH COMMISSION IN PAKISTAN HOSTS 75TH INDEPENDENCE DAY RECEPTION

Islamabad (Adnan Hameed) 75th Independence Day of Sri Lanka was celebrated in Islamabad, Pakistan on 6 February 2023. An evening reception took place in a local hotel in federal capital Islamabad on the 6th February 2023, followed by a programme featuring diverse cultural aspects of Sri Lanka via exclusive video documentary and cake cutting ceremony. Federal Minister for Ministry of Education and Professional Training Mr. Rana Tanveer were among the guest. A wonderful gathering of Diplomats based in Islamabad officials, representatives of international organizations, trade and tourism sectors, media and friends of Sri Lanka attended the event. In his opening remarks, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka out the message of His Excellency President on the occasion of the 75th National Day, High Commissioner Wijewickrama outlined the progress achieved by the Government in addressing the multi-faceted challenges and in leading the country towards peace and prosperity. Speaking at the ceremony, the Sri Lankan ambassador expressed his regret over the earthquake in Turkey and also expressed his solidarity with the Turkish people. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.He said Pakistan and Sri Lanka are trusted friends, our brotherly relations were established since 1948. We have the historical linkages since the period of Gandhara civilization. He was in a view that from last 2 years we were unable to host the Independence Day event in Pakistan due to COVID-19, but today we are Happy to host you as our valued guest. The chief Guest of the evening Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Mr Rana Tanveer Hussain started his remarks with congratulatory message and further highlighted the importance of Pakistan and Sri Lanka diplomatic, trade and business ties as well as defence relationship. Mr Tanveer also highlighted the Shehbaz govt educational exchange programs with Sri Lanka. An official ceremony took place in the High Commission of Sri Lanka with the hoisting of the national flag and the singing of national anthem in the early morning of 04th February 2023. The members & students of the Sri Lankan community in Islamabad, joined by the staff of the High Commission of Sri Lanka participated in this event, which was addressed by High Commissioner his Excellency Mr. Mohan Wijewickrama.