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President pledges support to build noble country

By Wyman Hettiarachchi

As the head of the State I pledge my unstinted cooperation to all those who dedicate themselves to create a noble country where all could live together free from racial, religious or political differences. I believe that everybody will come forward to contribute each one's share towards this sublime task, said President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga addressing a religious meeting held at the Kande Viharaya, Alutgama, yesterday, under the auspices of Siam Nikaya Malwathu Chapter Anunayaka Ven. Ambanwelle Pannasekera Thera.

The ceremony was organised in connection with the laying of foundation stone for the second stage of the Buddha statue and the opening of a newly constructed five storeyed building consisting of the relics room, Sri Saranathissa Library and a museum. The bo tree enclosure, the Computer Centre for Bhikkus, the Japanese Language Study Course and a new website for the Viharaya were also declared open.

President Kumaratunga stated that she was glad that even after losing thousands of lives, a majority of our politicians have now agreed to build up a young generation devoid of terror and violence.

The President while pointing out the urgency of optimum dedication towards the country's welfare above personal benefits, wished that all religious leaders including the Mahasangha may bless the ongoing noble journey based on the principles of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and Islam.

Mass Communications Minister Imitiasz Bakeer Markar stated that long before he took to politics, he and his father associated with the Kande Viharaya Temple and appreciated the Chief Incumbent's efforts to develop his poor village.

Delivering the address from the Chair, Ven.Ambanwelle Pannasekera Anunayaka Thera referred to the recent tragedy in the Sri Jayawardhanapura University with dismay and queried as to whether so much of effort and money were put in to University Education to resort to violence and mayhem.

Ven. Yatadolawatte Ariyawansa Nayaka Thera delivered the welcome address.

Lands Minister Rajitha Senaratne, Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapakse and many other Parliamentarians and Provincial Council and Pradeshiya Sabha members attended the occasion. 

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Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
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