A significant milestone

Sri Lanka celebrates her 60th anniversary of independence tomorrow. It's exactly six decades ago that we gained independence from the British. This year's independence celebrations are a significant milestone in our nation's history after our Security Forces liberated the Eastern Province from the clutches of terrorism.

We celebrate our 60th independence under a Government which has given top priority to the sovereignty of our country, its territorial integrity and national security. Our Security Forces have been fighting a ruthless terrorist organisation - the LTTE for over two decades.

Thanks to some fearless decisions taken by President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his Government during the past two years, all Lankans could celebrate the 60th independence anniversary with their heads high.

We have proved that we are a nation with a proud history and would not dance the fandango round any interested outside elements. We are a developing nation but we have a rich culture and heritage which is second to none.

As a nation we would by no means sell our culture, values or dignity. The right political leadership, coupled with the commitment of our brave Security Forces, have created a conducive atmosphere under which all of us could feel proud and stand strong as one nation.

Never before in the recent past have we felt so proud of our nation. The recent military successes in the battle against terrorism have made all of us feel strong, determined and proud.

Though most Governments which ruled the country either bowed to foreign pressure or made a business out of war, President Rajapaksa has proved himself a true patriot and a true son of our soil. That has enabled all citizens - Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims and Burghers to hold their heads high.

Mistakes have been rectified and national security has always been given top priority. The Government has never compromised on matters relating to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. This has been the hallmark of the success and new vision given to the Security Forces.

It has boosted not only the morale of the Security Forces but also the public to unite in peace.

Yesterday's bus bomb explosion in Dambulla, killing over 20 innocent pilgrims and injuring over 50 is the latest merciless act of the LTTE terrorists in a string of attacks. The international community, human rights organisations and Colombo based diplomats should take cognizance of this type of inhuman acts.

It has now been proved internationally that the LTTE is a ruthless terrorist organisation which has never shown any genuine interest to have a peaceful dialogue. Even on the few occasions they came to the negotiating table, they did so with sinister motives, to regroup and reinforce their military strengths.

Many of our illustrious leaders have played invincible roles in Sri Lanka's freedom struggles. They belonged to all communities and made huge sacrifices in liberating our beautiful island and winning freedom after 443 years of Portuguese, Dutch and British rule.

Not only the Sinhalese but Tamil and Muslim leaders too made exemplary contributions towards our independence.

The time is now appropriate to make it even more meaningful by uniting in Lanka's battle against terrorism. There was a time the LTTE terrorists enjoyed global sympathy and dominated most parts of the North and East.

But that situation has now changed drastically and President Rajapaksa has played a significant role in the nation's battle against terrorism.

Despite direct and indirect moves by many local and international LTTE sympathisers, President Rajapaksa made every endeavour to protect the national interests. With the ongoing operations against the terrorists, there is every possibility of liberating the entire North as well for next year's independence celebrations.

That is the wish and prayer of all loyal and patriotic Lankans, to eradicate terrorism and let all communities unite in peace. Our Security Forces have indomitable courage and the will power to achieve this goal successfully. Soon, Mother Lanka will be liberated fully and all communities in the North too could join in enjoying the 'true freedom'.

Lanka's independence coincides with the birthday of the 'Sunday Observer', which celebrates its 80th anniversary tomorrow. Sri Lanka's English newspaper with the largest circulation was founded some 20 years before the country gained independence from British colonial rule - February 4, 1928.

The 'Sunday Observer' , over the years, has gone from strength to strength to be the most sought after English newspaper in Sri Lanka. It has been Sri Lanka's flagship English newspaper, which has served many generations. It has made a significant contribution to the socio economic development in the pre and post independence eras.

As we celebrate our 80th anniversary, let's remember with deep gratitude all those past editors, journalists, artists and others who made a significant contribution towards the success of Sri Lanka's No. 1 English newspaper. Their untiring efforts made the 'Sunday Observer' the undisputed market leader - be it in circulation, readership, quality or content.

On this historic occasion, let's remember the founder of the ANCL, the late D. R. Wijewardene, with profound gratitude and appreciate the roles played by him, successive managements and employees of Lake House.

Millions of readers the world over have contributed to this huge success in no small measure.