"The Government since liberation of the country from 30 years of brutal terrorism  has paved a conducive environment to enable all communities to practice their religions peacefully and to live in harmony said the President  when a Buddhist delegation representing several countries called on him at Temple Trees on  Wednesday. The Buddhist delegation was  in Sri Lanka on the invitation of the Sri Bodhiraja Foundation.

The President also pointed out that some groups who cannot bear to witness people living in harmony and brotherhood are trying to create unrest in the country and thereby to disrepute the country internationally..

 "Whatever said and done, peace in a country and the world is in existence through the examples set by Buddhism said the President and thanked the delegation for visiting Sri Lanka to witness by themselves the unity among its people.

The President paid special honour to the leader of the delegation Ven Hai Tao who was conferred the "Dharma Keerthi Sri" honorary title by the Sri Lanka Ramanna Maha Nikaya.

Ven. Tao said his delegation during their 10-day tour visited places in the four corners of Sri  Lanka witnessed the unity and brotherhood existing between all people  and the development achieved by the country after ending terrorism.  He said the progress is  a good example to other countries.

Ven. Dr. Omalpe Sobhitha Thera and President's Coordinating Secretary for Religious Affairs Ven. Watinapaha Somananda Thera were also present on the occasion.(KH/SI)