"While we should not surrender to any force which seeks to work against peace, it’s also important that we should not lose hope before the challenges posed by the cowardly terrorist acts. I wish to reiterate on this occasion that we will not permit any inimical force to suppress the integrity of our nation which has been safeguarded through many years with great determination against considerable odds. It’s only through determination and commitment coupled with courage, patience and vigilance that we shall be able to overcome the challenges before us", says President Chandrika Kumaratunga in her message to mark the country’s Independence Day.

"On this occasion of the 53rd anniversary of our independence, we should be able to marshal the strength and the resolve to achieve the nobel aim of putting an end to the cruel and protracted war which has proved to be an immense burden to our people for several decades. The time has come for the people of the North and South to join hands setting aside all differences to attain this noble and most needed goal", she said.

The President’s message further stated:

"I am happy to make use of this occasion to remember with respect and to pay homage to the innumerable numbers of courageous leaders who have laid down their lives for the independence and liberation of our land. I also pledge on this momentous day on behalf of my government to safeguard the identity and integrity of this country of which they have sacrificed their lives.

"The independence which we have won only become meaningful in a country where all communities can live in peace and amity. Every moment in which peace and amity prevails among our people will contribute in its own way to consolidating the economic, social and political independence of our country. It is only through such meant that our people will be able to think freely and live freely attending to their day-do-day needs.

"My Government since assuming office in 1994 has done much to end the dark days of terror. We shall be able to renew and guarantee our freedoms only if we ensure that the conditions are created for going back to those brutish times."