President calls on citizens to build humane, prosperous nation

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his address to the nation,called on all Sri Lankans to contribute to the economic, social and cultural renaissance of the country.

"I stand here today as one of you. We have to create a society in which we all can live in dignity. We are all together in our fight for economic, social and cultural independence. Everyone has a role play in it, be it the farmers, teachers, health care workers, law enforcement personnel, garment workers to the estate workers,” the President said

.The President addressed the nation from the national Independence Day celebrations held at Independence Square in Colombo.

He said that while fighting for economic freedom, it’s equally important to gain social and cultural freedom.  

“This is a special celebration. Unlike other years, we are celebrating this year's Independence Day looking to the future as one,” he said.

“The Independence we gained 77 years ago is an important one. Many have fought to get to this day and we have to salute all of them. We have come a long way since then. As much as we commemorate  those we know by name, we also must remember all  the unknown persons who made sacrifices for this land,” he said.

The President said that as human beings, all must work to build a humane society. “ We are on a journey together on making this country the most prosperous country, not only economically but as a  humane and inclusive society.”