As we commemorate the 59th anniversary of independence, let us move forward with renewed hope of sustainable peace, economic development and prosperity for all Sri Lankans.
There is a firm commitment to go forward adopting pragmatic step by step approach to progressively build mutual trust and confidence among all communities. We are pursuing through negotiations and dialogue, our common objective of achieving peace, justice and development for all our people. Prospects of peace combined with government’s growth oriented strategies will bring prosperity to the country’s economy in the years to come. We look forward with confidence to a robust growth in the coming years despite continuing uncertain external environment.
As we move forward, we need to rise to the challenge of terrorism. Terrorism has become the dominant challenge disrupting all economic, social and political activities in this country. The majority of the people in this country, Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims must enjoy the freedom of living without fear and uncertainty in any part of the country. It can be achieved only if we all get together to fight against terrorism forgetting petty differences among us.
We must remember that our ancestors reacted strongly, for the sake of freedom against all foreign elements. They shed blood and tears to retain the freedom of our motherland. Because of these sacrifices we enjoy freedom. The time has come for us to rise as one for the sake of the freedom, uniting to defeat elements, which are standing against the unity of the land. The armed forces and the police have come forward to undertake this onerous responsibility. They are the heroes of our time.
Let us resolve, as we commemorate this National Day, to set aside our differences and work together to rebuild our country toward a brighter future.
Ratnasiri Wickramanayake
Prime Minister
