– President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today said the aspirations of the country’s war heroes extended beyond defeating terrorism and included building a developed, peaceful and just nation for future generations.

Addressing the 17th National War Heroes’ Commemoration Ceremony held at the War Heroes’ Monument in Battaramulla today (19), the President said the government is committed to fulfilling that vision while safeguarding lasting peace in the country.He noted that the armed forces had made immense sacrifices to liberate the nation from terrorism and had brought relief to millions of citizens, stressing that their service should be honored not only through remembrance ceremonies but also through efforts to build a progressive and developed Sri Lanka.

President Dissanayake said many families across the country still continue to bear the pain of losing loved ones during the conflict, including children, parents and spouses, adding that Sri Lanka must ensure such suffering is never repeated.He further emphasized the importance of preserving national unity, stating that the war had been fought against separatism and not against any ethnic community. He added that Sri Lanka belongs equally to all communities and rejected attempts to create divisions along ethnic lines.

The President also commended the armed forces for their role in disaster response and national emergencies, describing their contribution to the country as exceptional. He added that the government is working to strengthen Sri Lanka’s international standing while upholding the rule of law and judicial independence, noting that such reforms are in line with the aspirations of those who sacrificed their lives for the country.