February 04, Colombo (LNW): As Sri Lanka commemorates its 77th Independence Day, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake urged the nation to focus on building a brighter future rather than looking back at past challenges.

In his address during the national celebrations at Independence Square in Colombo, the President emphasised the collective hope and expectation shared by all Sri Lankans, whether from the north or the south, to unite in the quest for a modern, progressive nation.

“The path ahead is for every citizen to walk together,” President Dissanayake declared, highlighting the importance of achieving economic and socio-cultural independence for all.

He stressed that true freedom lies not just in political sovereignty, but in the ability for individuals to thrive as modern citizens within a nation that values their dignity and contributions.

The President called for a concerted national effort to achieve economic independence, reminding the public that it must be pursued without falling prey to the external pressures of the global economy.

“Economic freedom is not easily won, but together we can overcome any obstacle that stands in our way,” he said, urging citizens to dedicate themselves to this common goal.

Looking forward, President Dissanayake shared his vision for Sri Lanka’s future. “The nation we aim to leave behind is not just the one we inherited from history, but a Sri Lanka that you, the next generation, will be proud to call home—one that is respected globally and enriched by its cultural humanity,” he remarked.

He spoke passionately about the unique opportunity the nation now faces, encouraging citizens to embrace the moment and work tirelessly to shape the future. “We have no excuse to let this precious opportunity slip by. I trust that the nation we pass on to you will be taken forward with even greater vigour than we, the current generation, possess.”

President Dissanayake also touched upon the core responsibility of humanity in today’s world, reminding the people of their duty to make the world a better place for all.

“We are bound by an undeniable responsibility to create a world that reflects true humanity—one where all people can experience and cultivate kindness, respect, and mutual understanding.”

In his closing remarks, he called for national unity to bring the vision of independence to life.

“Let us all dream of this independence together and transform that dream into reality. While we may never be the wealthiest nation, we can certainly become an exemplary one—a country that stands as a beacon of equality, freedom, and national spirit.”

With his impassioned speech, President Dissanayake reminded Sri Lankans that the road ahead requires collective action, deep commitment, and unwavering faith in the nation’s potential.

This Independence Day, the focus was not on what has been lost, but on the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for a united and resilient Sri Lanka.

February 03, Colombo (LNW): In a significant diplomatic development, Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath engaged in a telephone conversation yesterday (03) with Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister, U Than Swe, to discuss key matters aimed at enhancing bilateral ties and addressing urgent issues concerning Sri Lankan nationals in Myanmar.

The primary focus of the conversation was the urgent request made by Minister Herath for Myanmar’s assistance in securing the safe rescue and repatriation of 18 Sri Lankan citizens who have been trafficked to the Myawaddy region in Myanmar.

These individuals have been forced to work in Cybercrime centres under harrowing conditions. The Minister stressed the critical need for swift action, as the victims are reportedly being subjected to severe mistreatment and torture by criminal syndicates.

Minister Herath also took the opportunity to express Sri Lanka’s gratitude to the Myanmar Government for its ongoing cooperation in efforts to rescue and repatriate Sri Lankan victims of human trafficking.

From 2022 to 2024, Myanmar had successfully assisted in the safe return of 91 Sri Lankans who had been trafficked to the Myawaddy region, a gesture which has been highly appreciated by the Sri Lankan Government.

However, with 18 Sri Lankans still held in captivity, the Minister urged Myanmar to prioritise their immediate rescue and return.

During the discussion, both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the robust bilateral relationship between their countries, which has been built over more than 75 years of diplomatic ties.

These relations are also enriched by deep people-to-people connections, particularly through shared Theravada Buddhist heritage.

The two leaders also agreed to explore the possibility of convening the fourth round of the Sri Lanka-Myanmar Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) at a time convenient for both parties, reinforcing their ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation in various fields.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministries of Foreign Employment and Tourism, will continue to work closely with Myanmar to ensure the swift and safe repatriation of the remaining Sri Lankans trapped in Myawaddy.

Both governments remain committed to overcoming the challenges posed by human trafficking and will intensify efforts to safeguard the welfare of their citizens abroad.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya in a remark celebrating Sri Lanka’s 77th Independence Day emphasised that independence is not only about sovereignty, but also about dignity, justice, and the fundamental right to live free from oppression.

Reflecting on the nation’s journey, the Prime Minister stated that true freedom lies in creating an inclusive society where every community, regardless of ethnicity, religion, caste, gender, or class, has an equal role in shaping the future of Sri Lanka.

She underlined that every citizen must feel respected and valued, marking the foundation of a truly free nation.

“A prosperous nation and a fulfilling life for all is not merely a dream; it is a collective call to action,” Dr. Amarasuriya remarked.

She called for a strengthened democracy, one where economic justice is at the forefront, and the voices of the most vulnerable and marginalised groups are not only heard but actively included in the decision-making process.

The Prime Minister further affirmed her commitment to building a Sri Lanka where every individual can feel a profound sense of belonging, equality, and worth. She urged the nation to move beyond symbolic gestures and focus on meaningful change, ensuring that Sri Lanka becomes a country that truly belongs to all of its people, with no one left behind.

Full Statement:

“Today, as we reflect on our journey, we recognise that true freedom comes from an inclusive and equitable society where every community; regardless of ethnicity, religion, caste, gender or class has an equal stake in shaping this nation and feels valued and respected.

A thriving nation, a beautiful life is not just a vision; it is a call to action. It is a commitment to a Sri Lanka where democracy is deepened, where economic justice is prioritised, and where the voices of the marginalised are not just heard but cantered in decision-making. It is a promise to build a country where every individual feels a sense of belonging and worth.

On this historic day, let us go beyond symbolism and dedicate ourselves to meaningful change; towards a Sri Lanka that truly belongs to all.”

February 04, Colombo (LNW): In a significant boost to Sri Lanka’s environmental infrastructure, the Government of Japan has granted 300 million Japanese Yen (approximately LKR 565 million) to enhance the nation’s waste management system.

This generous contribution is part of the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative, aimed at improving waste management capabilities in key regions across the country.

The formal agreement was concluded on the 3rd of February at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo.

The signing ceremony was attended by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and key officials from both governments, with the document signed by Ms. SAYAMA (IKUINA) Akiko, Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Mahinda Siriwardana, the Secretary to Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Finance.

The grant will be utilised primarily to strengthen waste management infrastructure, particularly in Sri Lanka’s Western, Northern, and Eastern Provinces.

The funds will be directed towards the procurement of 28 garbage compactors, which will significantly improve the waste collection and transportation capacity across these regions.

The allocation of the vehicles will see 14 compactors provided to the Western Province, 8 to the Eastern Province, and 6 to the Northern Province, enhancing local government authorities’ ability to manage waste effectively.

During the ceremony, Vice-Minister SAYAMA expressed Japan’s admiration for the Sri Lankan government’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts, which she highlighted as a major factor in attracting international investment to the country.

She also reiterated Japan’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s development trajectory, particularly in terms of infrastructure and governance reforms.

Further strengthening the bond between the two nations, Vice-Minister SAYAMA delivered a message of goodwill from Japan’s Prime Minister to President Dissanayake.

In his response, the Sri Lankan President thanked Japan for its continued cooperation and support, acknowledging the long-standing, fruitful relationship between the two nations.

He emphasised Sri Lanka’s unwavering commitment to upholding anti-corruption policies and promoting transparency in governance.

The President also took the opportunity to express his appreciation for Japan’s involvement in the country’s debt restructuring process and for resuming several Japan-funded projects that had been temporarily halted.

In addition, President Dissanayake thanked Japan for providing employment opportunities for many Sri Lankan expatriates and requested further assistance in expanding these opportunities in the future.

In addition to the grant for waste management, the President asked for Japan’s support in improving Sri Lanka’s public transportation system through further Japanese aid, highlighting the importance of sustainable development for the country’s future.

The signing ceremony was attended by several distinguished officials, including Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister for Economic Development, as well as high-ranking diplomats and representatives from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including Mr. ISOMATA Akio, Japan’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka, and Mr. SAITO Jun, Secretary to Vice-Minister SAYAMA.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): On the occasion of Sri Lanka’s 77th National Independence Day, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has urged the nation to stand united in the pursuit of a modern vision of freedom and national progress.

In a heartfelt message to the people, the President emphasised the importance of collective effort in realising the dreams of a revitalised Sri Lanka.

In his Independence Day address, President Dissanayake remarked on the nation’s resilience, despite the numerous challenges and deeply ingrained flaws left behind by the previous political regime.

He noted that the people’s government, founded on the collective will of Sri Lanka’s citizens, continues to move steadily forward, overcoming the shadows of the past.

“We are navigating through a difficult yet hopeful period,” the President stated, acknowledging the struggles faced but highlighting the remarkable achievements of the current government.

“Despite the obstacles we have encountered, we have laid the foundations for national revival and, as promised, Sri Lanka is now poised to enter a new era of growth and renewal.”

The President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to building on the progress already made, stressing that the real work now lies in systematically expanding the gains of the past years.

He called on every Sri Lankan to contribute to this collective effort, to help realise the long-held dream of a prosperous, self-sustaining nation.

“We must remain steadfast in our pursuit of this dream. With confidence and creativity, we will continue to build upon the foundation we have established and move forward with unwavering resolve,” he declared.

Full Statement:

“Today, as we celebrate the 77th National Independence Day, we do so with hopes and aspirations for a new kind of freedom. Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s history, we have now embarked on a new path, with a government built through the collective efforts of the people from the North, East, West, and South. At this moment, we stand together to take on the challenge of rebuilding a thriving nation – a beautiful life; something that was lost and eluded us over the past century.

For the sake of our future generations, we must elevate our nation to new heights. This was the very expectation of all the heroes in our history who struggled to achieve it with their blood and tears. Therefore, both individually and collectively, we must build a modern, developed Sri Lankan nation, guided by social, environmental, and ethical principles.

As the new government, over the past four months, we have laid the foundation for a stable economy, introduced a new political culture, and committed ourselves to a new political ideal. We strive for a society where people regard each other with equality, respect, and empathy; —free from racism and religious divisions. We focus on governance through public engagement and the rule of law, while prioritising the eradication of rural poverty. Our policies and actions aim to ensure that no citizen, particularly the most vulnerable, is left behind. Steps have also been taken towards digitalising the economy to embrace advancements in science and technology that we previously missed. Additionally, we are committed to transforming Sri Lanka’s global image—from a country known for corrupt governance to one that upholds an independent foreign policy and earns trust in international relations.

Despite countless obstacles and the deep-rooted flaws of the past corrupt political system, the people’s government, built by the collective will of the citizens, is steadily progressing forward. As promised, we have successfully ushered Sri Lanka into an era of national revival. Now, the task ahead is to systematically build upon this foundation and realise a centuries-old dream with unwavering confidence and creativity.

On this 77th National Independence Day, I invite all Sri Lankans to stand strong and united, to take part in shaping a modern vision of freedom, and to contribute to the collective beginning of this new era of revival.”

Meanwhile, issuing the Independence Day message, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya states that the independence is not just about sovereignty; it is about dignity, justice, and the right to a life free from oppression.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): The 77th National Independence Day of Sri Lanka is set to unfold today (Feb 04) at Colombo’s iconic Independence Square, with the theme “Let’s join the national renaissance.”

The commemoration promises to be a reflection of the nation’s rich heritage and a renewed call for progress, albeit with a more modest approach this year.

The formal proceedings will begin promptly at 8:00 a.m., presided over by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.

In an effort to keep costs minimal, the event will see a significant reduction in its scale compared to previous years.

The grand Independence Day Parade, a central feature of the celebration, will see a 40 per cent reduction in military personnel compared to last year, focusing more on showcasing the nation’s heritage than on elaborate displays of force.

This year’s parade will involve only 1,873 military personnel, a noticeable decrease from the 3,384 who participated in 2024. The Sri Lanka Air Force will contribute with just three aircraft performing a fly-past, and the march will be composed entirely of foot soldiers.

Notably, the usual display of armoured vehicles will be absent from the parade this time.

A highlight of the occasion will be a 25-gun salute from a Sri Lanka Navy ship, continuing the tradition of paying homage to the nation on this significant day.

As the country observes its Independence, the military parade will carry a message of national unity and renewal, with a sharp focus on fiscal prudence.

These streamlined proceedings reflect a broader trend towards simplicity, with organisers aiming to ensure that the day remains meaningful and resonant without excessive expenditure.

In addition to the ceremonial changes, the city of Colombo will implement special traffic arrangements to ensure the event runs smoothly whilst minimising disruptions to the public.

The Police Department has advised all invitees to arrive before 7:00 a.m. to avoid delays, with all participants being directed to their designated seats promptly.

For the general public planning to attend, access will be available via Bauddhaloka Mawatha, where security checks will be conducted near the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation before they are guided to their designated areas.

Key roads around the Independence Square and other related venues will be closed for the duration of the ceremony. Traffic will be restricted along several major routes, including Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Torrington Junction, and Premakeerthi de Alwis Mawatha, to ensure safe and efficient management of the event.

The police have also outlined several alternative routes for commuters, aiming to reduce congestion around the capital during the event:

• Vehicles coming from the direction of Nanda Motors should turn right at Independence Roundabout and continue via Philip Gunawardena Mawatha, Stanley Wijesundara Mawatha, and Bauddhaloka Mawatha towards Thummulla and Borella Cemetery.
• Drivers travelling from Bauddhaloka Mawatha towards Horton Roundabout can take Wijerama Mawatha as an alternative.
• Vehicles travelling from Wijerama Junction can follow the route towards Borella Cemetery, with Thummulla also serving as a viable route.

Additionally, residents within the restricted zones will be allowed entry if they present valid identification to the authorities.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Galle, Matara, Kaluthara and Rathnapura districts in the evening or night, and a few showers are likely in the Eastern province, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (04).

Mainly fair weather will prevail over the other areas of the island.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva and North-central provinces and in Galle, Matara, and Kurunegala districts during the morning.

Marine Weather: