Sri Lanka Embassy in Tokyo Independence celebrations

The Sri Lanka Embassy in Tokyo held a formal ceremony in Reiyukai Kotani Hall on February 5 to mark the 76th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka, with the participation of dignitaries, including Former Prime Minister of Japan Fukuda Yasuo, State Minister of Foreign Affairs Tsuge Yoshifumi and Japan-Sri Lanka Association Chairperson. The ceremony was attended by political leaders, ministers, members of

Japanese parliament, and officials.

Multi-faith religious observances from Buddhist, Hindu, Catholic and Islamic faiths were conducted and a moment of silence was observed. The national anthems of Sri Lanka in Sinhala and Tamil, and Japan, were performed by

Masako Shindo, an acclaimed Japanese Opera singer.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Rodney Perera spoke of the positive developments in the multi-faceted relationship between Sri Lanka and Japan. Ambassador Perera appreciated the lead role played by the Government of Japan to assist Sri Lanka in its economic revival and hoped that upon completion of formal procedures, Japanese investment and development assistance would resume. Ambassador Perera saluted the Sri Lankan community in Japan.

The former PM expressed confidence in Sri Lanka's growth potential and anticipated further development in bilateral relations.

Lankan artistes reflecting traditions of all ethnic communities of Sri Lanka, entertained the gathering. Guests were treated to a delectable Lankan meal showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Sri Lanka while Sri Lankan Tea was served.