National unity is the primary strength in rebuilding Sri Lanka

National unity serves as the fundamental strength for rebuilding the country, President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka stated during the 78th Independence Day celebrations.

He emphasised that in the journey toward a new Sri Lanka, every individual must remain subject to the rule of law.

Economic independence defines the true completeness of freedom, the President noted while reflecting on the 78 years since independence.

He believes the struggle for this complete freedom lies within every citizen.

Under the theme "Build Sri Lanka," he called for the restoration of independence and sovereignty as central pillars of the nation.

Acknowledging the mix of successes and failures over the past seven decades, the President affirmed the government's readiness to discard past mistakes and adopt constructive practices.

He stressed that transforming human resources is vital, replacing ignorance with knowledge, prejudice with progress, and division with unity.

Building a modern workforce requires a "transformational era" in education, integrating technology, empathy, and literature.

The President highlighted that the government is prepared to challenge old prejudices that hinder the creation of a "new human" for a modern age.

Defining "racism" and "extremism" as the ugliest words in the dictionary, the President warned that these forces only weaken and destroy national potential.

He reaffirmed that his administration will allow no room for divisive politics or extremism, as national unity remains the core engine of development.

Furthermore, the President underscored that the rule of law is the foundation of a new state. He noted that while honest citizens seek the protection of the law, those who bypass it fear its supremacy.

The "Build Sri Lanka" initiative gains its true meaning only through the consistent and proper establishment of the rule of law for all.