Ministry of Defence - Sri Lanka

73rd Independence Day will be held with pride prioritizing safety – Defence Secretary

January 20, 2021
  •     Defence Secretary assures to hold 73rd Independence Day Celebrations following tight health measures

“All arrangements have been made to celebrate Sri Lanka’s 73rd Independence Day reflecting the pride of the nation while strictly following health guidelines” Defence Secretary and Secretary to the State Ministry of National Security, Home Affairs and Disaster Management Gen. Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) said.

“Due to  the COVID-19 pandemic situation in the country, the presence of the invitees, school children and the number of troops to the parade will be restricted”, he said.

While stressing on the safety of those intending to attend the ceremony, Gen. Gunaratne further said “There is no room for anyone to doubt the safety since the Rapid Antigen Test and PCR test will be conducted in advance on those  who attend the event to ensure safety”.

The Defence Secretary expressed these remarks today (Jan 20) at the Independence Square during a meeting convened to review the progress of the arrangements of the forthcoming 73rd Independence Day celebrations.

The Defence Secretary closely discussed all aspects pertaining to the smooth conduction of the Independence Day celebrations and gave necessary directions to Tri-Forces Commanders, Inspector General of Police (IGP) and state officials to create a safe and secure environment for the ceremony.

Chief of Defence Staff and Army Commander Gen. Shavendra Silva, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne, Air Force Commander Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, IGP C.D. Wickramaratne,  Secretary Ministry of Youth and Sports Mr. Anuradha Wijekoon,  Secretary of Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Prof. Kapila Gunawardana, Additional Secretary of State Ministry of National Security, Home Affairs and Disaster Management Mr. K J Dharmaratne, Colombo District Secretary Mr. Pradeep Yasaratne, Senior Officers of Tri Forces and senior government officials were also present at the meeting.