Joyful commemoration of India's Republic Day in Colombo

In celebration of the Republic Day of India, High Commissioner Gopal Baglay paid tribute to the Indian Peace Keeping Force by unfurling India's national flag at Colombo's India House.

Dancers salute during a performance on the occasion of India's 74th Republic Day celebrations organized by the Indian High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Jan. 26.High Commission of India in Colombo, Sri Lanka

In celebration of the Republic Day of India, High Commissioner Gopal Baglay paid tribute to the Indian Peace Keeping Force by unfurling India's national flag at Colombo's India House. In addition, an official Guard of Honor and readings from President Droupadi Murmu's address marked this special day in Sri Lanka, where Indian diaspora members joined together for a joyful commemoration.

The Indian High Commissioner in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Gopal Baglay, addresses the audience during the 74th Republic Day festivities organized by the Indian High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Jan. 26.High Commission of India in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's Parliament Speaker, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana, delivered a video address as part of the event that saw the Sri Lankan Navy band perform and concluded with a spectacular cultural program organized by Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre.

In his video message, Abeywardana acknowledged India's US$4 billion aid package pledged in 2022.

High Commissioner Baglay voiced optimism for the future of India-Sri Lanka relations in his official statement. “Recent developments in India-Sri Lanka ties have strengthened our friendship and all-around cooperation. At the same time, the two countries also remain vigilant to address common challenges, especially in the maritime security domain,” he said.