Foreign Affairs Ministry celebrated Deepavali with the participation of the Diplomatic Corps and the Ministry staff. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, PC speaking on the occasion said that this event demonstrates how different communities of our country live side by side in unity and share the joy of each other’s festivals. He highlighted the equal rights guaranteed to all communities by the Constitution.
Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane highlighted the diversity and talent of the Ministry staff as well as their teamwork in jointly organising the celebrations.
India’s High Commissioner Gopal Bagley and Nepal’s Ambassador Bashu Dev Mishra spoke on the significance of Deepavali.
The Deepavali celebrations included religious observances conducted by Swami Gunatitananda Saraswati followed by traditional dances invoking blessings performed by the Ministry staff and the Indian Cultural Centre in Colombo.
Welfare Society President Manisha Perera delivered the vote of thanks.
The celebrations were preceded by a ‘Kolam Competition’ organised with the participation of the staff representing all communities. Prizes were awarded to the winners of the competition.
