Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Air Chief Marshal (Retd.) Udeni Rajapaksa, has called on Sri Lanka and South Africa to draw on their shared history of struggle and emerge as strong voices of the Global South in a shifting international order.

Addressing a reception hosted by the Sri Lanka High Commission at Sri Lanka House on February 5 to mark Sri Lanka’s 78th Independence Day, Rajapaksa said the two nations are bound by parallel journeys shaped by the pursuit of freedom, equality and unity in diversity.

“Our never-ending pursuit for freedom, equality and unity in diversity, founded on democratic ideals, has propelled both our nations to embody the rules-based world order,” he said. “We fought for freedom for all, not for a few.”

The event — the first Independence Day celebration hosted by the Mission in five years — drew 174 guests, including 84 members of the diplomatic corps, 76 Sri Lankans residing in South Africa and other accredited countries, as well as senior officials from South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s post-conflict trajectory, the former Air Force Commander said the country had successfully transitioned its military role from conventional combat to humanitarian-focused peacebuilding after decades of internal conflict.

“We demonstrated to the world that terrorism can be defeated and sustainable peace achieved by empowering and reintegrating those who had strayed, building a more inclusive community,” he said.

Rajapaksa also pointed to the resilience of the Sri Lankan people in the face of economic and political challenges, citing the national response to Cyclone Ditwah as a recent example of the country’s enduring spirit.

Emphasising the need for closer collaboration among developing nations, he said Sri Lanka and South Africa now stand at a pivotal moment where cooperation within the Global South is essential to defend common interests.

“It is inevitable to recognise the role of the Global South in defending the common interest for the greater good of the whole world,” he said, adding that both countries have consistently championed economic integrity and collective security.

The High Commissioner urged renewed economic diplomacy between the two nations, highlighting untapped opportunities in areas such as sports and cultural exchanges.

“These are avenues of vast potential that require little more than dialogue, shared interests and investment in each other’s strengths,” he noted.

The reception showcased Sri Lankan heritage, with traditional cuisine served to guests and symbolic items such as brass oil lamps, silver Sandakada Pahana plates, masks and wood carvings reflecting the island’s cultural identity. The event was organised with the support of the Sri Lankan community in South Africa.

In his address, Rajapaksa also underscored the Government’s vision to “Rebuild Sri Lanka,” reaffirming the country’s commitment to resilience, renewal and strengthened international partnerships.