President Sirisena expressed these views during a ceremony, held in connection with appointment of Ven. (Dr.) Ittapane Dhammalankara thera as the Mahanayake of Kotte Sri Kalyani Samagri Dharma Maha Sangha Sabha.

The ceremony was held at Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya on Saturday (Feb. 28). The President said that an advisory board comprising the Maha Sangha belonging to three chapters would be appointed for the benefit of Buddhism.

The President acknowledged the services rendered by Ven. (Dr.) Ittapane Dhammalankara thera at national level. Chief incumbent of Kotte Nagaviharaya Ven. Maduluwawe Sobhitha thera encouraged the President to achieve the objective of establishing a new era, as pledged.