RIYADH, 3 February 2006 — The big and vibrant Sri Lankan community in the Kingdom will celebrate its National Day tomorrow.
The Lankan missions in Saudi Arabia have made all arrangements, in association with the community, to mark the day with pomp and show amid nationalistic fervor.
The day at the Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh will begin with the flag hoisting by Ambassador A. M. J. Sadiq at 9 a.m., followed by a breakfast for all community members. National anthem will be rendered afterward.
First Secretary W. S. M. S. Wijesundera will read out the message of President Mahinda Rajapakse in Sinhalese, while, M. B. M. Zarook, Labor Welfare Officer will read Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake’s message in Tamil and Commercial Secretary P. A. S Ponnamperuma will read Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera’s message in English. Ambassador Sadiq said religious scholars will also pray for the progress and prosperity of the nation.
The Sri Lankan Expatriates Society, (SLES), in association with the embassy, will host a dinner in the evening for the community.
“We have also organized a cultural show,” SLES President A. S. M. I. llyas said.
In Jeddah, Consul General Masihudeen Inamullah will hoist the national flag at 7.30 a.m. at the consulate premises.
All Sri Lankan nationals are invited to attend the functions.