COLOMBO (NewsRadio); Sri Lanka celebrated its first restriction-free New Year’s Eve after two years of COVID-19 disruptions, as the world began bidding farewell to a year marked for many by the war in Ukraine, economic stresses and the effects of global warming.
Sri Lankans around the country and especially those in Colombo celebrated the dawn of 2023, by lighting fireworks and organizing events and parties despite the country experiencing the worst economic crisis in modern times.
People also flocked to major towns throughout the day yesterday to complete their shopping as Sri Lankans were seen eager to bid adieu to one of the most difficult years in recent times.
Citizens also gave priority to religious observances.
Meanwhile, President Ranil Wickremesinghe says 2023 will be a critical year in which Sri Lanka’s plans to turn around the economy.
The Head of State issuing a message to mark the dawn of 2023 said, we are looking at the New Year after having undergone the bleakest of times, immense hardships, as well as the uncertainties and hopelessness of the last year.
