Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay says cooperation and working together will be important for Sri Lanka and India in the journey that lies ahead to celebrate the centenary of independence in 2047 for India and 2048 for Sri Lanka.
He made this observation yesterday (24) addressing the gathering at the Rhythm of Harmony held at the Concert Hall of the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall to mark the 74th Republic Day of India with the participation of President Ranil Wickremesinghe as the Chief Guest.
The UDX, a globally acclaimed musical band from Nagaland in the Northeastern part of India performed at the show along with the Sri Lankan Heavy metal Quintet Band Stigmata.
The Indian High Commissioner said the two bands from Sri Lanka and India were selected to perform at the event to mark the close ties between the two countries, shared civilisation, shared aspirations of peace, progress, prosperity, friendship, and close ties between the two countries.
He said India is a vibrant growing economy and vibrant diverse democracy like Sri Lanka adding that diversity and democracy are two things that Sri Lanka and India lived by and live for.
Baglay said Sri Lanka marks its 75th Independence Day next month adding that “So as close friends, we should celebrate this event together signifying the real rhythm of harmony. It is not only the harmony of separate bands and music but also the harmony and symphony of India and Sri Lanka. So we celebrate our togetherness in celebrating 75 years of independence, and 75 years of diplomatic relations and also recommit ourselves to the journey ahead of both countries to celebrate the centenary of independence.”
He added that it’s not only political leaders, professionals, scientists, diplomats, bureaucrats, and civil servants who should corporate and work together but also every section of society that would play a very crucial role in the shared prosperity that we are going to forge with everybody’s participation.
Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay appreciated President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s presence at the event. Ministers, state Ministers, parliamentarians, and Indian and Sri Lankan nationals participated in the event to enjoy the musical experience.
