National Independence Day celebrations commence

The 78th National Independence Day ceremony officially began at Independence Square following the arrival of President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka.

The festivities are held this year under the theme "Build Sri Lanka." The event saw the sequential arrivals of Chief Justice Padman Surasena, Speaker of Parliament Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and the President.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya and other dignitaries formally welcomed the President to the gathering.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa is also in attendance at the national celebration.