Sri Lanka commemorates the 75th Anniversary of Independence in Vienna

Feb 21, 2023 | Embassy News

The Embassy hosted a diplomatic reception at the Rathaus Wien (Vienna City Hall) on 13 February 2023 commemorating the 75th Anniversary of National Independence Day of Sri Lanka.

His Excellency Ernst Woller, First President of the Parliament of the Province of Vienna graced the event as the Guest of Honour. The reception was attended by several dignitaries including Mag. Sophia Kircher, First Vice President of the Tyrolean Parliament, VIPs, officials from the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, representatives from UN bodies, Ambassadors and Permanent Representatives based in Vienna, entrepreneurs, tour operators and travel agents, as well as the print and electronic media.

Ambassador and Permanent Representative Majintha Jayesinghe, in his welcome speech drew attention to Sri Lanka’s achievements, emphasizing how the joy and pride evoked by the monumental milestone in our history brings a sense of courage and confidence to collectively resolve the country’s challenges and, furthermore, promote the image and interests of  Sri Lanka. The Ambassador requested invitees to visit Sri Lanka and experience the brilliance of our resplendent island for themselves.

Recalling the long and cherished special relationship which has existed between Austria and Sri Lanka since ancient times, Ambassador Majintha Jayesinghe noted that over the years, cooperation between our two countries has grown exponentially covering a multitude of areas of common interests and concerns. The Ambassador went on to state that our mutually beneficial journey continues and extended his appreciation to the Government, as well as the friendly people of Austria and other accredited countries for assisting Sri Lanka.

His Excellency Ernst Woller, underlining Sri Lanka’s relations with Austria mentioned the importance of promoting connectivity between Vienna and cities in Sri Lanka. First President Woller alluded to his special connection to Sri Lanka by highlighting his frequent visits to  Sri Lanka, having travelled to the country more than 10 times since his first visit in 1980.

Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of National Independence Day of Sri Lanka, mementos were presented on behalf of His Worship Michael Ludwig, the Mayor and Governor of Vienna and to the Guest of Honour Ernst Woller. Mementos were also presented to Ljiljana Cassim, Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka to the Republic of Serbia and Edith Hornig, Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Styria and Carinthia in Austria, for their significant contribution towards the strengthening relations between Sri Lanka and their respective country and region for 28 and 18 years respectively. Dr. Channa Wijewardena was also appreciated for the 25 years of contribution towards the promotion and strengthening of cultural relations with foreign countries through Sri Lanka’s Missions overseas.

Invitees were enthralled by the traditional dance performance, as well as the colourful and elegant costumes of the troupe of Channa – Upuli Performing Arts Foundation. Guests were also able to flavour an array of delicious Sri Lankan cuisine and the world’s finest Ceylon Tea, creating a truly Sri Lankan ambience.

Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka

Vienna

21 February 2023