The Sri Lankan High Commission in Islamabad, Pakistan, marked the 77th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence on February 4, 2025, with a commemorative event at its premises.
The official ceremony began in the morning with Acting High Commissioner Christy Ruban hoisting the national flag. This was followed by the Sri Lanka’s National Anthem and a solemn two-minute silence in honor of those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
The traditional lamp was lit by the Acting High Commissioner and dignitaries, marking the start of a religious ceremony in which representatives from Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and Hinduism bestowed blessings upon the nation, its leaders, and its citizens.
During the Independence Day reception, three messages were read: the President’s message was read by a representative of the Sri Lankan High Commissioner, the Prime Minister’s message was read by Christy Ruban, the Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, and the Foreign Minister’s message was read by the Defence Advisor Brigadier Kaminda Silva.
Later, the Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, Christy Ruban, delivered a compelling and insightful address, highlighting the responsibilities of citizens, particularly the vital role of youth in national development and the “Green Sri Lanka” vision of its leadership. He also emphasized the enduring and friendly ties between Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
The event was graced by Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, Patron-in-Chief of the Pakistan Hindu Council; Pastor, Religious Scholar and Honorary Consul General of Sri Lanka to Peshawar; Defence Advisor of the Sri Lankan High Commission in Islamabad, Brigadier Kaminda Silva; staff of the Sri Lankan High Commission and their family members, Tri Forces Officers, along with a large number of Sri Lankan students studying in Pakistan.
