| en_455702_0 President Maithripala Sirisena says he will take every possible step to build long-lasting peace and reconciliation in the country. | |
| en_455702_1 He made these remarks addressing a special ceremony held at the President’s House, to mark the Deepavali celebration, which was organized under the guidance of the President. | |
| en_455702_2 Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa was also part of the celebration. | |
| en_455702_3 ‘Cultural ceremonies such as Deepavali plays a pivotal role in building coexistence and reconciliation among different communities that suffered numerous adversities due to separation between communities over the past decades’, President Sirisena stated in his Deepavali message. | |
| en_455702_4 President Sirisena said that all citizens of the country must be subject to the just and equal treatment. | |
| en_455702_5 The ceremony was colourful with many cultural events including Hindu dances. | |
| en_455702_6 Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan, Ministers and MPs, dignitaries including diplomats participated at this event. | |