Bishop Gino Reali hosts President to dinner

President Mahinda Rajapaksa who is currently on a visit to Rome attended a banquet hosted in his honour by Bishop Gino Reali on Thursday night. His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith who was also present on the occasion addressing the gathering after the Banquet briefed them on the current political and economic situation in Sri Lanka and described the immense service rendered by President Mahinda Rajapaksa towards the economic development of Sri Lanka and the welfare of its people.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa towards the economic development of Sri Lanka and the welfare of its people. Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith said everyone should thank President Mahinda Rajapaksa for enabling the Sri Lankan people to breathe peacefully with a sense of freedom.

Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith said, "Return of peace to Sri Lanka is an event of great historical significance. By restoring peace President Mahinda Rajapaksa has rendered an invaluable service towards his country. The role he has to play as head of state is not an easy one. But President Rajapaksa is such a courageous leader that he is certain to overcome all challenges and build a new and strong Sri Lankan nation." Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith said, "Be courageous in taking decisions. I am certain that by doing so you will achieve better and successful results. We will always render our full support to you."

A press release by the President's Media Division said the members of the gathering congratulated President Mahinda Rajapaksa and offered their greetings and good wishes on his completion of 42 years in politics.