On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka, it is with feelings of pride and pleasure that I extend my heartiest felicitations to my fellow countrymen living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It is heartening to note that six decades have passed since our beloved country gained Independence. Several historians had given different definitions to our country. They include- “Serendipity”, “Land of the Kings” and “The Pearl of Indian Ocean”. To reach what we are today, our motherland had experienced a series of political, economic and social changes, as well as challenges in different forms.

The per capita income in Sri Lanka now remains at $1,320 and Sri Lanka is no more classified as a least developing country in the region. Expected economic growth is 7.5 percent from last year’s 6.7 percent. Sri Lanka has recorded a 14 percent growth in the export sector during the first five months of this year. The total imports have exceeded $1 billion and imports reflect the economic growth in the country. She continues to maintain highest rating on the Human Development Index in South Asia. We have already achieved some of the Millennium Development Goal targets in primary school enrolment, gender equality and maternal and infant mortality rates.

In the international arena, Sri Lanka maintains and enjoys cordial relations with global community guided by the principles of Non-Alignment. As for the Arab and the Muslim world, no doubt, Saudi Arabia assumes an important place in the hearts of Sri Lankans by virtue of the location of two holy places for Muslims in Makkah and Madinah, home to 550,000 Sri Lankans and as the humanitarian country, which always comes forward to help the deserving people in any part of the world irrespective of creed, country or religion

Important aspect of Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia relations is the consistent policy of the Sri Lankan authorities, toward the Arab cause. Every successive government in Sri Lanka has supported the Arab cause on various international forums. When it comes to the Arab cause, it is pertinent to mention the strong commitment of President Mahinda Rajapaksa to this cause. For three decades he has been the president of the Sri Lanka Palestinian Friendship Association. Under the guidance of President Rajapaksa , the Foreign Ministry spearheaded by Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, recently opened a Representative Office in Ramallah. In reciprocation, the Palestinian Authority has named a street after our President Rajapaksa in Ramallah.

I have a word for every member of our community in the Kingdom as well. We are a peace-loving community, therefore, please continue to abide by the laws of the host country and be goodwill ambassador of Sri Lanka. .

I also take this opportunity of thanking the governor of the Western region, and the Saudi Foreign Ministry officials including Ambassador, Director General Muhammed A. Tayeb, head of the Makkah Branch of the Foreign Ministry, for their kind and continuous assistance toward the Sri Lankan Consulate. My sincere thanks are also due to my dear Sri Lankans, particularly for those who are in the Western region of Saudi Arabia for their tremendous and committed cooperation in all the efforts of the mission.

­ Abdul Latiff

Mohamed Lafeer

Consul General