JEDDAH, 5 January — Sri Lankan expatriates in Saudi Arabia celebrated the 53rd anniversary of the island state's independence with flag hoisting ceremonies in Riyadh and Jeddah yesterday morning. President Chandrika Kumaratunga's National Day speech was read at the largely attended functions. Ambassador Nowfel Saly Jabir presided over the ceremony in Riyadh and Consul General Abdul Cader Muhammad Ibrahim in Jeddah.
The ambassador in his message thanked the Saudi authorities for providing excellent services and facilities to his country's pilgrims coming for Haj and Umrah. He said the two countries had reached consensus on establishing a joint commission." The ambassador hoped that the friendly ties between the two countries will further strengthen in years to come.
The expatriate community in the Kingdom had earned a reputation for hard work, perseverance, loyalty and dedication, he added.
The consul general referred to the contribution of the expatriate community in supporting the country's program of economic development. Their contribution through investment and remittances had given additional boost to the country's much-needed economic development, he said.
