Sri Lanka is celebrating its 67th Independence Day today on Feb. 4. The island nation gained independence from the British in 1948. It is a national holiday and celebrated all across the country. This is a day when the entire nation remembers the efforts made by the forefathers. The movement for independence of Sri Lanka from foreign rule was largely peaceful by nature. It was initiated at the turn of the 20th century and spearheaded by mostly educated people belonging to the middle class.

Their efforts paid off on Feb. 4, 1948. In 1972, after introducing amendments to the constitution, the country was declared a republic and thus renamed Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankans today, who will be celebrating their independence, should try to emulate their great leaders of the yesteryears and try to learn from their experiences ways to settle their disputes amicably without using violence. Consultation, compromise and consensus are the keys to resolve all problems.

We take huge pride in the fact that throughout the 67 years of its existence, democracy has thrived in this country, which boasts a very high literacy rate. We take this opportunity to congratulate all Sri Lankans on this historic day.

S.H. Moulana

Riyadh