The festival held under the theme “Kithu Upathin Navumvana Minisathbavata Ida Demu” was organized under the guidance of the Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith.

Addressing the gathering the President said that the Christmas will be a great opportunity to build peace and reconciliation while resolving the existing issues in the society. He pointed out  that the world needs peace, affection and reconciliation and he commended the commitment of the Christianity as a religion for the reconciliation.

The President also presented certificates and awards for the winners of creative competitions held in parallel to the State Christmas Festival 2016.

A memento was presented to the President at the ceremony to express the felicitation of the fishing community in Negambo.

Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Pierre Nguyen Van Tot, Minister John Amaratunga, State Minister Sudarshini Fernandopulle, Deputy Minister, Ranjan Ramanayake, Nimal Lanza also participated.