"India’s maximum support for Sri Lanka’s green development process is assured"
-Indian High Commissioner Mr. Gopal Bhagle.
On the invitation of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bhagle visited Seethawaka Botanical Garden on 21.12.2022 and planted a sapling in the garden in celebration of India’s 75th Independence Day.
At the occasion, the Prime Minister stated that "The Indo-Sri Lankan friendship is not limited to a few years. It spans over many centuries. Bilateral relations between the two countries have become stronger every time. By this year, India has become one of the most powerful countries in the world. Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the current Chairman of the G20 group granted numerous benefits to the Neighboring countries as well.
“The participation of a high commissioner of one of the world’s most powerful states in this event further strengthens the friendship between the two countries. Therefore, today is a special day for the people in the area of Seethawaka. Environment is not limited to one generation. It is everyone’s responsibility to protect such botanical gardens full of biodiversity. The kingdom of Seethawaka played a special role in the country’s freedom struggle. The nature of this unique environment also had triggered it.
The Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bhagle revealed that "India’s support for Sri Lanka’s green development process is deserved. The relations between the two countries are not limited to economic cooperation. India’s full support is given to Sri Lanka in the programme of promoting renewable energy.
It is very important to use natural resources in the development process without harming the environment. The history of great bilateral relations and people like the Prime Minister’s father, Minister Philip Gunawardena, who strengthened those great relations should be gratefully remembered at this time. He further commented.
The High Commissioner highlighted the need to promote economic partnership between the two countries and work with the joint efforts of both countries to create environment-friendly policies that combat climate change."
Yadamini Gunawardena MP, Jayantha Rohana Chairman of Seethwaka Pradeshiya Sabha, Pradeep Yasaratne Colombo District Secretary, Dr. Shiromi Krishnaraja Director General of Seethawaka Botanical Garden, officials, residents and school children participated at the event.