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Colombo dazzles for the season

by Sarath Malalasekera

The entire City of Colombo was lit up by Interior and Christian Affairs Minister John Amaratunga on Sunday night to celebrate the festive season from December 1 to January 2, 2003.

Amaratunga addressing the gathering near the Odel showroom, where he switched on the lights, said the programme of festivities has been drawn up on a concept of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who felt that maximum use should be made of the peace dividend during the festive season since this is the first Christmas and the New Year being celebrated after the ceasefire accord was signed.

With the city devoid of barriers and travel restrictions, the people move about without any inhibitions, the Minister added.

He said this will also go a long way in enhancing the country's image abroad as safe and peaceful which would help attract tourists and foreign investors.

Amaratunga paid a tribute to Colombo Mayor Prasanna Gunawardena for his assistance to illuminate the City of Colombo.

The Colombo city will be illuminated and decorated at all roundabouts and streets in the City, private sector and Government buildings, hotels, banks and institutions.

Christian organisations and the Catholic Church will hold carols and help the needy.

The celebrations will end with a mega music show at the Galle Face Green on December 31.

A grand fireworks display sponsored by the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka will be held from barges parked on the ocean bordering Galle Face Green.

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Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
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