FREEDOM DAY celebrations 2012 in SRI LANKA by Srimal Fernando

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FREEDOM DAY celebrations 2012 in SRI LANKA

    By Srimal Fernando, Asia Correspondent

 

High Commissioner of Republic of South Africa Geoff Doidge and Sri Lankan Minister of Disaster Management Mahinda Amaraweera at the celebration

On the occasion of the 18th anniversary of South Africa’s Freedom day, the High Commissioner of Republic of South Africa His Excellency Geoff Doidge and Mrs Carol Doidge hosted a grand reception at Hotel Taj Samudra Colombo on Friday the 27th April 2012. His Excellency Doidge together with the high Commission staff greeted arriving guest personally at the entrance of the reception hall. The reception brought together policy-makers, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of prominent think tanks and many businessmen.

After the arrival of Minister of Disaster Management Mahinda Amaraweera the reception commenced with the singing of the national anthems of Sri Lanka and South Africa. The celebration cake was cut by the host High Commissioner of Republic of South Africa Excellency Doidge and the Sri Lankan Minister Amaraweera. Friends of South Africa, the diplomatic community and music lovers were also associated with the event to showcase South Africa’s relationship with Sri Lanka at its best.

High Commissioner of Republic of South Africa Geoff Doidge

The guests also had the opportunity to witness the remarkable performance of a melody by a group of Sri Lankan talented young singers led by Ms Soundarie David. The singers entertained the audience to coincide with the official ceremony of the celebration of the Freedom day. Their spirit of singing heightened the day’s wondrous celebrations.

In welcoming guests High Commissioner Doidge highlighted a few of South Africa’s main endeavors over the last few years and his country's efforts to promote bilateral relations between the two countries. During his remarks at the reception, Hon Minister of Disaster Management Mahinda Amaraweera stressed the importance of the Sri Lanka – South Africa bilateral relationship and thanked his fellow diplomats for their commitment.

High Commissioner Geoff Doidge with Embassy staff 

 

 Shortly after the remarks on the status of Sri Lanka – South Africa bilateral relationship, the High Commission of South Africa in Colombo hosted the Freedom day ceremonial banquet that proceeded at the roof top banquet hall at the Taj Samudra Hotel.

Source http://www.thediplomaticsociety.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=336

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