Commit to achieve true meaning of freedom

To entrust the future of the nation to minds enslaved by imperialism for more than a century was more dangerous than being under the colonial rule itself, President Maithripala Sirisena said yesterday.

I would like to emphasize that time has come to build the economy of our country on the foundation of agriculture

In his Independence Day message, the President said that his prime objective should be to collectively commit to achieving the true meaning of freedom obtained, with a new vision and renewed vigour. He said: “Having gained independence from imperialist rulers, as a nation we expected a political, socio-economic and cultural forward march with a unique national identity, free of colonial shackles. Hence, for future progress, we need people with spirits invigorated by national customs, values and culture, he added.

“We could accomplish colossal tasks, similar to those gigantic achievements of other great civilizations of the world in the past, by being independent. We are a people who established our own national identity from the beginning. Therefore, in this auspicious occasion, I would like to emphasize that time has come to build the economy of our country on the foundation of agriculture” the message said.

The President observed that the common enemies of the progress of national revival are poverty and corruption. “We must resolve to eradicate these evils completely,” he opined.

He stated that all those patriots who sacrificed their lives for the sake of independence of the nation since the colonial era were commemorated on this occasion with honour and dignity. All the service men and women dedicated to safeguarding the freedom and independence of the nation today are also remembered with gratitude.

He expressed his belief that all political parties together with all of us will be able to march forward with courage and peace towards accomplishing the ultimate goals of independence.