Dhaka, 5 February 2026 – The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Dhaka celebrated the 78th National Independence Day of Sri Lanka at its premises, joining members of the Sri Lankan community living in Bangladesh in a solemn and festive commemoration. The ceremony began with the hoisting of the Sri Lankan national flag, followed by the singing of the national anthem and the recital of the Jayamangala Gatha. Religious leaders representing Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and Islamic faiths conducted multi-faith observances, reflecting Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious diversity. Participants also observed a two-minute silence in remembrance of national heroes and those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence and sovereignty. Messages from Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath were read during the event. Adding cultural colour to the occasion, students from the Sri Lanka School in Bangladesh performed traditional cultural items. Addressing the gathering, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dharmapala Weerakkody, emphasized the importance of unity, resilience, and coexistence among Sri Lanka’s diverse communities. He urged Sri Lankans to uphold these values while working toward a peaceful and prosperous future. The High Commissioner also expressed gratitude to the Sri Lankan community and business groups in Bangladesh for their financial and material support for disaster relief efforts in Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. He particularly acknowledged the joint initiative of Sri Lankan community organizations in Dhaka for mobilizing assistance. He further invited continued support from Sri Lankans in Bangladesh for the Sri Lankan government’s “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” initiative aimed at long-term recovery and socio-economic development. Highlighting the friendly and longstanding bilateral ties between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, the High Commissioner noted both countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges. The celebration concluded with the serving of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine to guests and participants, marking the occasion in a festive spirit.