Sri Lanka Celebrates 77th National Independence Day

COLOMBO (News 1st): The 77th National Independence Day of Sri Lanka was celebrated this morning at the Independence Square in Colombo. The event was graced by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

After a significant period of time, this year's Independence Day celebrations returned to the iconic Independence Memorial Hall in Colombo. Despite being a modest affair, the event was filled with national pride and significance.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, and several ministry secretaries, were also in attendance at the celebrations, among other distinguished guests.

Under the theme "Towards National Renaissance" the 77th National Independence Day celebrations commenced with the arrival of the President.

The celebrations commenced with the President hoisting the national flag, followed by the singing of the national anthem by 44 school students.

A two-minute silence was observed in remembrance of the war heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

The President thereafter received a guard of honor from the tri-forces squadron.

Following the ceremonial celebrations, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake addressed the nation on the 77th Independence Day.

In his address he urged all Sri Lankans to continue striving for economic, social and cultural freedom.

He affirmed that even though Sri Lanka may not become the wealthiest nation in the world, however if we strive for it, Sri Lanka can become the richest nation in spirit, embodying equality and the ideals of freedom.