On February 4, 2023, we had the honor of attending the 75th Independence Day Celebration of Sri Lanka, thanks to the invitation extended by Ambassador E. Rodney M. Perera and Mrs. Perera, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Japan. As board members of AWLF, we were in attendance.

Sri Lanka is a country famous for its well-known “Ceylon tea” and Ayurveda, and it gained independence from Britain on February 4, 1948, marking its 75th anniversary this year. The commemorative ceremony began with chanting by Buddhist monks from Sri Lanka, followed by greetings from Catholic priests, Islamic clergy, and representatives of various religions. It was a truly impressive moment to witness greetings transcending all religious boundaries.

From Japan, former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hayashi delivered congratulatory speeches. There was a collaboration between traditional Amami island songs and Sri Lankan traditional musical instruments, as well as traditional dances and recognition of Sri Lankan businessmen. Distinguished guests including Devi, the wife of former Indonesian President Sukarno, and Mrs. Wickie were also in attendance. It was a magnificent gathering where people from different countries, religions, cultures, businesses, politics, and even children, embraced diversity and connected with each other.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to Ambassador Rodney Perera and Mrs. Perera for the invaluable opportunity to attend such a remarkable event.