COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has given out instruction to celebrate the 75th Independence Day with pride, at minimal cost.

A pre-discussion was held on Thursday (26) at the President's Office chaired by President Ranil Wickremesinghe regarding the Independence Day celebration being held in a grand and proud manner, but maintaining minimum cost.

Accordingly, in conjunction with the 75th Independence Day celebration, many special programs are scheduled to be implemented from February 2nd to the 19th. 

According to the President's Media Division the following events have been planned:

Special Dalada Pooja and Pirith chanting
Religious ceremonies of all faiths
Cultural show held at Independence Square
Traditional Independence Day celebration main event held at Galle Face Green
National parks and Zoo's will be open to the public free of charge
Opening of the Jaffna Cultural Centre
Kandy republic parade
Cycle race from Dondra Head to Point Pedro

The President advised the officials that it is their responsibility as well as that of the political authority, to pay attention to the current financial situation of the country while estimating the expenses required for these activities.

The President had advised that spending must be practical, and minimal.

While pointing out that there is huge opposition among the people regarding the allocation of funds for the 75th Independence Day celebration, the President emphasized that efforts should be made to minimize the related expenses.

Expressing his views further, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said, “We must celebrate the 75th Independence Anniversary, otherwise, the world will say that we are not capable of celebrating even our independence. Similarly, we need to attract tourists and investors to our country. We need to build a positive image of our country. Therefore, let us minimize our expenditure and celebrate our Day of Independence.

It has been planned to initiate a project to create urban forests in conjunction with the Independence Day celebrations. We expect to start the activities prior to attending the Climate Summit (COP28) in Dubai. In addition, we also expect to initiate several new institutions."

• Indian military officers in Sri Lanka on study tour
• Attorney General recommendation on tenure of LG bodies expected on Monday (20)
• 32% of Sri Lankan households are food-insecure – WFP
• ‘Booru Moona’ leads cops to high-powered explosives
• Free TSP fertilizer for North & East farmers; Distribution for other areas to commence soon