Message from Minister for Foreign Affairs Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

Today, we celebrate the 56th Anniversary of Sri Lanka's Independence. This is traditionally an occasion to reflect on the past and look to the future with renewed commitment and dedication to pursue our objective of achieving lasting peace and prosperity.
The Independence Day anniversary this year comes at a particularly crucial juncture. The Cease-fire Agreement, which came into force in February 2002, has held, by and large, ending almost two decades of senseless bloodshed and destruction.
The earnest hope and expectation of all Sri Lankans is that the Peace Process will be resumed soon, in order to reach a just and durable settlement to the armed conflict.
During the last two years, we have been able to put the country back firmly on the path of economic recovery. We have also been able to achieve significant progress in rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement in the areas affected by the conflict.
We are greatly encouraged by the confidence reposed by the international community through their consistent support for the Peace Process. The pledges at the November 2002 Oslo meeting and June 2003 Kokyo Donor Conference are tangible expression of such international support.
On this occasion, I look forward to the continued support and co-operation of the international community as well as all expatriate Sri Lankans to usher in an era of enduring peace and prosperity to our nation. I am confident that Sri Lankans abroad will continue to remain actively engaged in promoting the nation's interest.