While celebrating the end of a dark phase in Sri Lanka’s history, let us also remember the members of our armed forces who either lost their lives or suffered serious injury while carrying out their duty of safeguarding innocent civilians and property.

We have no doubt that his Excellency the President together with his elected government would invite all political parties to join hands in rebuilding the economic and social fabric of our nation and provide the conducive environment for all Lankans to live with dignity and mutual respect for each other. It was heartening to note that His Excellency will give leadership in fostering a Sri Lanka where there will be no minorities and only two types of persons, those Patriotic to Sri Lanka and those who are not. This promise will no doubt also give great comfort to the large number of Lankan expatriates who will reconsider strengthening their links with mother Lanka and also join the government in the massive effort of rebuilding Sri Lanka as the "Pride of Asia".