National Christmas Celebrations will be held in Negombo on December 22 under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.
Addressing the media at the Government Information Department yesterday, Tourism Development, Christian Affairs and Lands Minister John Amaratunga said it is appropriate to have National Christmas celebrations in Negombo which is a traditionally Catholic and Christian area often referred to as little Rome.
“The birth of Christ is the most important religious event. Religious practices of people attending churches, prayers and living up to the Ten Commandments should be considered as the utmost purpose of the Christmas day celebrations,” the minister said.
He said the President created four ministries for four religions in the country to ensure that devotees of different religions in the country would be able to practice their religions without any fear.
“The government recognises followers of all religions are citizens of the country. We have a separate departmental head. Funds are allocated annually for the requirements of the Catholic and Christian churches. All religious groups enjoy freedom and safety. As minority religious group, we always work respecting Buddhism which is the religion of the majority in the country.” Minister Amaratunga said.
He said the tallest Christmas tree in the world is being erected. It will be completed by December 22.
He said the minister who started this initiative is a Buddhist. That shows the amity between religions in Sri Lanka, he said.
Commenting on the carnival centering the tallest Christmas tree, the minister said he opposes the use of Galle Face grounds for any even since it will harm the beauty of the land strip. The government has allocated Rs. 7.5 million for the national Christmas celebrations.