The Independence Day celebrations commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by Daya Pelpola, Ambassador and rendering of the National Anthem in Sinhala and Tamil with the participation of Sri Lankan children residing in Italy. Religious observances were conducted by Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Christian clergy followed by the reading of Independence Day messages of Maithripala Sirisena, the President, Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister and Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs in all three languages.

The Ambassador, in addressing the gathering highlighted that all members of the community should stay united and participate in all events despite their different ethnicities; this will ensure stronger links among the Sri Lankan expatriates. He thanked the Sri Lankan community in Italy for their contribution towards Sri Lanka’s economic, cultural and political advancement. Ambassador acknowledged the steps taken by past leaders to obtain social, political and economic freedom for the nation and stressed that the aim of the Government is to bring about a political culture of good governance with equal opportunity for all Sri Lankans.

Following the function, Dana was offered to the Maha Sangha together with other religious clergy by the Embassy staff.