Sri Lankan High Commissioner in Ottawa, Harsha Kumara Navaratne has sought Canadian support to make peace with overseas Tamil brothers and sisters in spite of the challenges.

High Commissioner Navaratne at a diplomatic reception hosted at his residence to celebrate the 75th Independence Day of Sri Lanka on 6th February, 2023, while acknowledging Canada’s concerns of Sri Lankan Tamil Canadians, stated that the new government of Sri Lanka was making meaningful progress towards economic recovery, reconciliation and stability, while simultaneously addressing multiple challenges posed by the ongoing economic crisis.

The former civil society activist further stated that “we need to make peace with our overseas Tamil brothers and sisters despite challenges” and that “we cannot do this without the support of Canada.”

He also stressed the need to sign the MoU on bilateral consultations as it would provide a structured basis in the form of annual consultations to discuss all concerns bilaterally so that Canada and Sri Lanka could mutually resolve any concerns.

Replying to the High Commissioners address, chief guest, Associate Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada Cindy Termoshuizen stated “as one of the first nations to recognize Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948, we are also celebrating 75 years of Diplomatic relations in 2023. Canada values its bilateral cooperation with Sri Lanka, including in the context of our recently launched Indo – Pacific Strategy. This strategy reaffirms what we already know as Canadians. That the Indo-Pacific region is playing and continues to play a significant and growing role in Canada’s future and that our relationships in the region are vital in addressing the issues that matter most to all of us”.

She also stated “indeed the contributions of over a quarter million Sri Lankan heritage have served to enrich Canada’s cultural mosaic. At a time when the international community is facing a period of considerable turbulence, we need to work together to address global issues, such as climate change. We recognize that Sri Lanka’s 75th anniversary of independence coincides with a historically pivotal moment underpinned by a significant economic crisis. Canada has contributed to the humanitarian needs of those hardest hit by the effects of the crisis and welcome Sri Lanka’s efforts thus far in pursuit of economic recovery. Our hope is that these efforts may soon bear fruit paving the way for a return to growth and prosperity. At the same time, the significance of this moment could provide an opportunity to foster genuine change. So that Sri Lanka emerges from this crisis as a renewed reconciled and an inclusive society. Canada remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka through this reform process.”

Members of Parliament Chandra Arya, Rachael Thomas and Heads of Diplomatic Missions and their representatives together with officials of Global Affairs of Canada, community leaders and well-wishers were among the special invitees.

The guests were treated to flavourful Sri Lankan food including hoppers, kottu, rice and curry and authentic Sri Lankan desserts. Executive Chef Chaminda Ambagaspitiya explained to the guests the making of the food and so that they could enjoy each item at the specially created food stations together with Dhruvesh Restaurant team headed by Donald Wingell.