Clergy appeals for ethnic harmony

Dharma Sri Abeyratne

Clergy representing different faiths yesterday stressed on the urgent need of working towards fostering ethnic harmony and peace while creating a better environment for mutual understanding and amity among all ethnic groups.

They expressed this common view addressing a media conference on the prevailing situation in Colombo yesterday. The event was organised by the Inter-faith Study Circle.

Sri Lankans over centuries have been living in harmony with other communities.

But, certain narrow-minded extremists are trying to destroy this ethnic and religious harmony.

It is the right of every individual to practice his or her faith without hindrance.

Sinhalese, Tamils, or Muslims should build an understanding with each other. They should try to unify all ethnic groups and promote unity between different communities in the true spirit of a flourishing multi ethnic society as that exists in Sri Lanka.

No one can be allowed to destroy the hard won ethnic and religious harmony. Everyone is duty-bound to act responsibly to preserve this harmony without sowing the seeds of religious hatred.

Persons belonging to all ethnic groups in the country are responsible to display friendly and brotherly behaviour setting an example to other countries.

Ethnic peace and harmony is vital if the country is to move forward in the development sphere.

Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims should co-exist in peace and harmony without considering ethnic, religious, language or other differences. The religious clerics said communal harmony and unity are a must for the overall development of the country and moreover protecting the country’s good image. They said we can stand only if we are united. Divided we fall.

Sinhalese,Tamils and Muslims have been living in a friendly manner throughout the country without considering ethnic, religious, language or other differences. This unity must be preserved, the clerics said.

Ven Baddegama Samitha, Ven Hunupolagama Vajira, Father Chirspin Leo, Moulavi Farook MFM and Moulavi TK Azoor spoke.