Paris Marks Sri Lanka’s 78th National Day with Celebration of Unity, Culture, and Bilateral Friendship
Paris 09-02-2026 — The Embassy of Sri Lanka in France commemorated Sri Lanka’s 78th National Day with a vibrant official ceremony in Paris under the leadership of Ambassador Manisha Gunasekara. The event brought together several hundred attendees, including members of the Sri Lankan diaspora, community leaders, business representatives, youth groups, and distinguished guests, reflecting the strong and evolving ties between Sri Lanka and France.
The program opened with a multi-religious observance representing Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam — a powerful symbol of Sri Lanka’s multicultural, multiethnic, and multireligious identity. This moment of unity set the tone for an evening dedicated to shared heritage, resilience, and friendship. Cultural performances by young members of the Franco-Sri Lankan community followed, highlighting traditional dance and artistic expression that celebrated the island’s rich cultural legacy.
Special Guests Emphasize Friendship and Shared Values
Among the special guests was Christine Engrand, Member of the French National Assembly, who spoke warmly of her personal connection to Sri Lanka. Reflecting on her many visits to the island, she praised its cultural depth, natural beauty, and spiritual heritage. She paid tribute to the resilience of the Sri Lankan people in overcoming decades of challenges — including conflict and natural disasters — noting their determination to rebuild and move forward with dignity. Engrand expressed her hope for the continued strengthening of friendship, dialogue, and cooperation between the two nations.
A senior representative responsible for South Asia at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs David Péneau highlighted the growing strength of Franco-Sri Lankan relations in an increasingly complex global environment. His remarks focused on four pillars of cooperation: environmental protection and ocean conservation, maritime security in the Indian Ocean, the promotion of democratic values including gender equality, and the importance of human exchanges driven by diaspora communities, economic partnerships, and cultural ties. He emphasized that these shared priorities reinforce a durable and forward-looking partnership.
Ambassador Gunasekara Highlights Unity and Cooperation
In her address, Ambassador Manisha Gunasekara welcomed the large gathering and underscored the celebration’s theme of building Sri Lanka with pride and unity. She acknowledged the Sri Lankan diaspora in France for its solidarity and meaningful contributions toward national rebuilding efforts following recent natural challenges.
The Ambassador highlighted ongoing cooperation with France, the European Union, and UNESCO, describing it as a new chapter in bilateral engagement. She referenced high-level political exchanges, expanding economic relations, and French investment initiatives in Sri Lanka, while recognizing the important role played by business leaders and younger generations in strengthening long-term cooperation.
Celebrating Heritage and a Shared Future
Beyond marking an important national milestone, the celebration became a vibrant expression of Sri Lanka’s diversity, resilience, and cultural pride. Traditional dance performances by young members of the Franco-Sri Lankan community showcased the island’s unique artistic heritage through colorful costumes and rhythmic storytelling, symbolizing the living connection between generations. In a warm and uplifting finale, embassy staff gathered in song, creating a moment of unity that resonated with the audience. Through diplomacy, culture, and community engagement, the evening reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and France, while highlighting the diaspora’s important role in shaping a shared future built on mutual respect, cooperation, and cultural continuity.
Photograph Provided by Rohan Dayadara
Paris Telegraph News Room
