Sri Lanka’s President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has called for courage and unity in the aftermath of the Ditwah cyclone disaster, emphasizing the collaborative spirit displayed by people of all races and religions in providing aid to those affected.
“This year, Sri Lankans observe Christmas at a crucial point in our national journey, having endured a significant natural disaster while persevering with determination to overcome its challenges and rebuild,” Dissanayake stated.
He highlighted that the essence of Christmas embodies love, peace, joy, sharing, and sacrifice, with a strong focus on supporting the oppressed and a steadfast commitment to the liberation of all people.
“In response to the recent disaster, the people of Sri Lanka once again showcased, in the most practical way, the noble human virtue of assisting a neighbor in distress with compassion and unwavering resolve—a principle upheld by Christianity and all religions,” he expressed.
Dissanayake acknowledged the efforts of citizens who navigated difficult paths to deliver relief to those affected, bringing the Christmas message of loving one’s neighbor to life and fostering a society grounded in empathy and solidarity.
The President’s full Christmas message reads:
On December 25th, Christians around the world joyously celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, marking the sacred occasion of Christmas. This year, the people of Sri Lanka observe Christmas at a pivotal time in our national journey, having faced a challenging natural disaster while striving to overcome its hardships and rise again.
The true meaning of Christmas is love, peace, joy, sharing, and sacrifice. At the forefront of these values is the commitment to support the oppressed and the unwavering dedication to the liberation of all people.
In light of the recent disaster, the people of Sri Lanka once again demonstrated, in the most practical manner, the noble human virtue of embracing a neighbor in distress with compassion and unwavering resolve, a principle that is upheld by Christianity and all religions.
I believe that our citizens who traversed difficult paths to deliver relief to the affected have given living meaning to the Christmas message of loving one’s neighbor and building a society founded on empathy and solidarity.
To dispel darkness, light must be spread. Christianity teaches that Jesus Christ, born in humble surroundings in Bethlehem, sacrificed on the Cross to save humanity from sin on Mount Calvary. He triumphed over death and was resurrected through his unwavering determination, faith, and the brilliance of his wisdom.
Therefore, I invite all of you to rise together as a nation, facing the painful challenges of reality with courage and unity. May this blessed Christmas renew our humanity through compassion, and bring peace, joy, and hope to every home.
I wish you all a peaceful, joyful, and compassionate Christmas!
Anura Kumara Dissanayake
President
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
25th December, 2025
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