"I wish to re-emphasize that the most reliable weapon against terrorism is to do justice to the innocent Tamil people. I know that the Sinhala people in the South are ready for this." - President Rajapaksa

Feb 04, Colombo: Sri Lanka's 59th Independence Day celebrations were held today at Galle Face Green with the participation of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Ministers, Commanders of the three Armed Forces, Inspector General of Police, senior government officials, diplomats and other distinguished guests.

The three Armed Forces displayed their majesty with elegant parades and displays of sophisticated military equipment. A Home Guard battalion was the newest addition to the Independence Day parades.

The President in his Independence Day speech emphasized action to bring freedom and development to the country. He called for the speedy establishment of democratic governance in areas recently captured from the LTTE.

"It is our duty to protect the lives and property of the Tamil and Muslim people, and bring sanctity to the future world of their children," Rajapaksa said.

"I wish to re-emphasize that the most reliable weapon against terrorism is to do justice to the innocent Tamil people. I know that the Sinhala people in the South are ready for this. We are not ready to give in to the bloodthirsty demands of the LTTE. However, at the minimum we should be reasonable and honest enough to agree with Mr. Anandasangaree or the Hon. Douglas Devananda.

"The uncompromising stand of our government is a firm commitment to a policy to safeguard national dignity, and not betray it," the President further stated.

Strict security measures were observed in the capital city and the police arrested around 270 suspected persons, the majority from the Tamil community, in a special operation launched early the previous day. A claymore mine was also found at a city garage yesterday. Police suspect it was intended to be used on Independence Day.

(Pix: Sudath Silva)