Sri Lanka Embassy, Community Mark 77Th Independence Day

Doha, Qatar: The Sri Lankan Embassy in Doha celebrated the 77th anniversary of the country's Independence Day at the Chancery premises yesterday, focusing on Sri Lanka's history, growth, and expanding bilateral relations.

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the State of Qatar H E Sithara Khan Azard, hoisted the national flag before a gathering of the Sri Lankan community. The community members then joined the choir of the Stafford Sri Lankan School in Doha to sing the national anthem, followed by two minutes of silence in remembrance and honor of all the patriots who sacrificed their lives to liberate the motherland.

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Qatar H E Sithara Khan Azard hoisting the national flag to mark the country's Independence Day yesterday.

Sri Lanka's Independence Day is celebrated annually on February 4 to commemorate the country's political independence from British rule in 1948. The 77th Independence Day celebrations were held under the theme“Rallying for National Renaissance.”

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Azard highlighted the importance of working together as a community to foster inclusivity, understanding, and peace in Sri Lanka.

“As we celebrate this important occasion today, let us recommit ourselves to building a Sri Lanka that is just, prosperous, and inclusive,” she said.

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Qatar H E Sithara Khan Azard Addressing the gathering.

Referring to the strong bilateral relations between Qatar and Sri Lanka, she said,“Sri Lanka and Qatar share deep-rooted ties built on mutual respect, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. The contribution of the Sri Lankan community in Qatar has played a pivotal role in strengthening these bonds. I take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to all Sri Lankans who continue to bring pride to our country through their hard work, dedication, and professionalism.”

She also acknowledged Qatar's remarkable development and its leadership on the global stage, stating,“Qatar's remarkable development and its leadership in the global arena stand as an inspiration. As Sri Lanka advances on its path to economic recovery and growth, we look forward to deepening our bilateral relations, expanding trade and investment opportunities, and fostering collaborations in key sectors such as energy, tourism, education, and technology.”

In her remarks, Ambassador Azard also emphasised that Sri Lanka is at a crucial juncture in its history, striving to rebuild its economy, strengthen democratic institutions, and harness the potential of its rich human and natural resources toward a national renaissance.

“As you are all aware, Sri Lanka is undergoing a significant transformation, and the contributions of the Sri Lankan diaspora, including those here in Qatar, will be instrumental in this journey,” she said.

During the event, the Independence Day messages from Sri Lanka's President, Prime Minister, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism were read by Embassy officials.

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