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Freedom Day celebrations focus on harmony

by Rodney Martinesz

The country celebrates another independence day today in a climate of renewed hopes of a lasting peace rekindling the brotherhood and amity among all communities that prevailed when the nation was conferred dominion status over half a century ago.

This year's 55th Independence Day ceremonies will be marked with accent on harmony with guns falling silent in the wake of a year long ceasefire between the government and the LTTE and on the eve of a crucial round of peace talks where the warring parties will sort out their differences through negotiations rather than with arms.

There will be symbolic events at today's ceremony highlighting unity among all communities under a single banner and as children of one nation.

This year's celebrations will also not be without its usual pomp and pageantry.

The main ceremony at Torrington Square will be held under the patronage of President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in attendance.

The main feature will be the hoisting of the National flag. There will also be an offering of floral tributes at the statue of the nation's first Prime Minister D.S. Senanayake.

A spectacular fireworks display Artistry in the Sky will be held at Galle Face Green from 8.30 p.m. sponsored by Lion Air and handled by Australian pyrotechnic expert Richard Lim.

Elaborate arrangements have also being made in the Provinces to celebrate independence day with the participation of students and events displaying patriotic fervour.

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Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
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