India playing central role in promoting developmental, humanitarian goals globally – Prime Minister

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said India, while advancing as an economic power, is playing a crucial role in promoting developmental and humanitarian goals globally. Speaking at the 77th Independence anniversary celebrations organised by the India Sri Lanka Society in Colombo on Saturday (23), he said that in this Century of Asia, in the councils of the world, India is synonymous with economic development.

He recalled that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on August 15 this year, that Independence Day is an occasion to reconnect with history and said it is also an occasion to assess our present and reflect about our way forward. Looking at the present, we see that India has not only regained its rightful place on the world stage, but it has also enhanced its standing in the international order. India is playing a crucial role in promoting developmental and humanitarian goals globally, he said.

“We in Sri Lanka see that India has not only regained its rightful place on the world stage, but it has also enhanced its standing in the international order. India is playing a crucial role in promoting developmental and humanitarian goals worldwide,” Prime Minister Gunawardena said. Guest of Honour Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay highlighted diverse elements of deep-rooted, centuries-old ties between the people of India and Sri Lanka. He was also appreciative about the initiatives undertaken by organisations like the Sri Lanka India Society in strengthening the people to people bonds. Sri Lanka and India are children of the same ancient culture and both countries have common cultural relationship and India will always be of assistance whenever Sri Lanka needs India’s help, he said.

President of SLIS, Kishore Reddy stressed that people-to-people relations and cultural links constitute one of the cardinal pillars of the relationship between India and Sri Lanka. This way forward will lead to the cross-pollination of thoughts and ideas, and the sharing of knowledge will nurture diversity and common prosperity, he said.

The keynote address was made by SAARC Cultural Centre Director Renuka Ekanayake.

Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya, Minister Manusha Nanayakkara, MP Yadamini Gunawardena, Eastern Province Governor Senthil Thondaman, diplomats and officials attended the function.