In keeping with tradition, the first day of work began with hoisting of the National Flag and the singing of the National Anthem after which, two minutes silence was observed to commemorate the war heroes and those who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. The recitation of the oath for public officers followed.
Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe addressed his staff with words of encouragement, laying out the guidelines of what needs to be achieved for the year 2023 by the Embassy. The Ambassador reiterated the message that President Ranil Wickremesinghe delivered to the nation, to mark the New Year. He echoed the President’s sentiment that Sri Lankans should all join hands in working for the recovery of the nation.
Amassador Samarasinghe said that Sri Lanka’s diversity should be protected and nurtured as it was a source of great strength. He called for the fostering of a true Sri Lankan identity that embraces and celebrates our rich diversity. He called on the staff of the Embassy to work together to achieve even greater outcomes than those gained in 2022. (Ends)
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington DC
02nd January 2023
