- President

It is my belief that these New Year festivities should seek to further unite our people in heart and mind, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his message for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.

The New Year celebrations by Sinhalese and Tamils alike are most
appropriate in recognizing the kinship among us. This is the
continuance of strong cultural traditions that strengthen the bonds
among the people of our land, he said.

I trust that this Sinhala and Tamil New Year which reflects the unity
and pride of our nation will be celebrated by all in the spirit of
joy, peace, sharing and contentment which will lead us to a future of
prosperity, the President emphasized.

Following is the full text of the message :

This is the first New Year being celebrated in harmony and contentment
since the motherland was unified.

It is my belief that these New Year festivities should seek to further
unite our people in heart and mind. The New Year celebrations by
Sinhalese and Tamils alike are most appropriate in recognizing the
kinship among us. This is the continuance of strong cultural
traditions that strengthen the bonds among the people of our land.

The government has carried out all necessary measures to bring the joy
and meaning of the New Year closer to the people. To this end we have
sought to bring prosperity to the nation through agricultural
development and encouraging an ethical way of life.

The true spirit of the New Year should be felt most by our children
who make up the future generation. It is our responsibility as a
nation to teach them the best values and traditions preserved through
thousands of years and bestow upon them the cultural heritage that has
enriched our nation. Towards this end, it is my wish that every
household will carryout the New Year traditions with hope of
auspicious beginnings for the future.

I trust that this Sinhala and Tamil New Year which reflects the unity
and pride of our nation will be celebrated by all in the spirit of
joy, peace, sharing and contentment which will lead us to a future of
prosperity.

I wish you all a Happy New Year!

- The President's Media