Maha Sangha always works for country’s progress - President

President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Saturday said even though the Maha Sangha belongs to different Nikayas, they all share one common aim, which is the progress of the country and Buddhism.

“The Maha Sangha, whatever the three sects they belong to share the common vision of building a morally rich society and a land of Dhamma,” the President said.

The President made these observations at a ceremony where he presented ‘Sannas Pathra to Most.Ven. Napana Pemasiri Mahanayaka Thera who was appointed Chief Prelate of the Ramanna Maha Nikaya. The event was held at Independence Square on Saturday.

Whilst appreciating the contribution of the Maha Sangha to the progress of the country and Buddhism, he said that the Ramanna Nikaya as a guiding principle and unity among the Maha Sangha has been a blessing to the country.

The President on the occasion appreciated the services rendered by the Most.Ven. Napana Pemasiri Mahanayaka Thera towards the progress of Buddhism and the country.

He made a lengthy speech appreciating the Maha Nayake Thera’s contribution to Buddhism and society in general, both within and outside the country and wished the Maha Nayake Thera good health and long life to continue such endeavours.

The Maha Sangha, including the Mahanayake Thera’s of the Three Nikayas, Prime Minister DM Jayaratne, Ministers, Governors, Government and Opposition Parliamentarians, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Presidential Chief of Staff Gamini Senarath and Diyawadana Nilame Nilanga Dela were also present.