The pride of Ruhuna and gateway to prosperity

Dharma Sri Abeyratne and Raja Waidyasekara reporting from Mattala

Opening the gateway to the country’s prosperity and adding a golden chapter to Sri Lanka’s aviation history, President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday opened the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA). MRIA, the second international airport of the country was commissioned amidst pomp and pageantry in the historic city of Hambantota.

The event symbolized and underlined the great qualities and patriotic fervour of the people of Ruhunu Magampura such as bravery, confidence, dedication, national unity, patriotism, nationalism, national responsibility and awareness of national history.

The grand opening ceremony commenced with the arrival of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa at 10.55 am.

The President and the First Lady arrived at MRIA by a SriLankan flight named ‘City of Magam Ruhunupura’ at 10.55 am to the chanting of Pirith by the Maha Sanga.

They were then received by Civil Aviation Minister Priyankara Jayaratne and Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa. This was followed by the blowing of trumpets heralding the arrival of the President.

The President was later accompanied to the main flag post by ministers and the Civil Aviation Ministry officials along the red carpet. Thousands of school children waved national flags while the President was accompanied to the main dais.

The President hoisted the National Flag amidst the beating of Magul Bera and blowing of conch shells. The National Anthem was sung by schoolchildren. All the invitees and thousands of people participated in singing the National Anthem together with the schoolchildren.

Thereafter the Mahanayake of the Asgiriya Chapter Most Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thera tied a Pirith Noola on the hand of President blessing him for his service to the nation.

The President was then conducted to the special dais, where he unveiled the plaque marking the official launch of the MRIA. Thereafter President Rajapaksa listened to J aya Mangala Gatha and Devo Vassathu Kalena sung by hundreds of schoolchildren representing schools in the Ruhunu Magampura.

President Rajapaksa was issued a commemorative stamp and a first day cover by Postal Services Minister Jeewan Kumaratunga. Following this President Rajapaksa unveiled the office complex of the MRIA with the participation of other dignitaries.

The moment was marked by the arrival of the second flight to the MRIA from Dubai. It was an A340 Airbus belonging to SriLankan Airlines UL 226.

He then went through the arrival and departure terminals to place a special note on the Golden Note Book. The President then played floral tributes at the Buddha statue at the Airport lobby.

Two more flights belonging to foreign airlines arrived at MRIA. One was an Airarabia flight from Shaharja while the other was from Dubai belonging to Flydubai airlines.

A huge parade followed where hundreds of security forces personnel took part. The march past showcased the strong mentality of the Sri Lankans in addition to the commitment, bravery, national unity and determination to achieve peace that was mirrored in the minds of those present.

There were also dance performances, singing and other items that showcased national unity and culture.

Around 300 dancers representing many cultural centres participated in various dance items including a cultural event depicting the historic tale of the Ravana and the Dandu Monaraya .