A commemorative stamp and first day cover was issued on Sunday in line with the upcoming Christmas celebrations. The stamp and first day cover were issued at the Jubilee Hall of St. Mary’s Church in Negombo.

The event was graced by His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith,  Postal Services Minister Jeevan Kumaratunga and acting Fisheries Minister Sarath Kumara Gunaratne.

Archbishop, His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith expressed these views:

[quote]I beg and urge the political leadership and the leaders of various parties who are contesting in the presidential election to hold a free and fair election. Do not hinder it. Do not try to add points to anyone using the Pope’s visit. Create an environment for the people of this country to cast their vote peacefully. Make sure that election related violence does not take place prior and subsequent to the elections, and please leave aside the Pope and carry out your election propaganda activities…. work for a free election. Say ‘no’ to harassment. That is the meaning of being civilised.[/quote]

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