Reject immoralities in society and build a nation with the Buddha Dhamma; MS

President Maithripala Sirisena in his Poson Day message said that the state policy today is to reject immoralities in society and build a nation in which everyone could live as honourable citizens in accordance with the Buddha Dhamma. 'It is the teachings of Buddha that showed us the correct path and that led us to be a righteous member among the comity of nations. Since ancient times, our rulers governed the country with the principle of justice to everyone in the society as taught in Buddhism. Today, we are determined to take corrective steps to restore those values that were gradually eroded.' 'The arrival of Arahath Mahinda to our land 230 years after the Mahaparinibbana of the Buddha also gave our people a new freedom that has moulded our thinking on respect for and sustenance of the lives of humans and all other living species, and protection of vegetation, land and water resources. He also taught us the value of simple way of life with his example of a frugal life style. The cave in which Arahath Mahinda resided, ‘Mihindu Guhava’ is an example of his simplicity' 'The Buddhist foundation centred at Mihintale gradually expanded to the great ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa with the proud cultural heritage of ancient Buddhist Viharas and Chaithyas leading to a proud legacy of a rich Buddhist culture.' President Sirisena said.