Wednesday Dec 17, 2025
Wednesday Dec 17, 2025
Wednesday, 17 December 2025 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Colombo Port City Economic Commission Chairman Harsha Amarasekera (PC)
Western Province Governor Hanif Yoosuf
Port City Colombo marked the start of the festive season with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, held under the theme “Lights of Hope,” in alignment with the Western Province’s initiative. As Sri Lanka continues to recover from the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, the ceremony was more than a seasonal observance; it offered a moment of reflection and unity, bringing together leaders and stakeholders in support of national recovery efforts.
The event was attended by senior Government officials, dignitaries, partners, and stakeholders, with Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof gracing the occasion as Chief Guest. In his address, the Governor underscored the importance of collective responsibility and standing together as communities rebuild. He also noted with appreciation CHEC Port City Colombo Ltd.’s Rs. 10 million contribution to the Government’s “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” Fund and the deployment of heavy machinery and technical support along the A5 route from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, assisting disaster-response and infrastructure restoration efforts.
Colombo Port City Economic Commission Chairman Harsha Amarasekera (PC) highlighted that the ceremony went beyond a festive tradition. He said aligning with the Western Province’s “Lights of Hope” initiative reflects Port City Colombo’s commitment to responsible engagement and solidarity during challenging times. He also praised the strong partnership between the Commission, the Government, and CHEC Port City Colombo Ltd., noting the company’s swift response to support disaster relief and infrastructure recovery.
A poignant highlight of the ceremony was a one-minute silence, observed in remembrance, prayer, and solidarity with those affected by Cyclone Ditwah. The moment served as a reminder of shared loss, strength, and collective hope for recovery.
The Christmas Tree was ceremoniously lit by Hanif Yusoof, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Russel Aponsu, Harsha Amarasekera (PC), and CHEC Port City Colombo Ltd., Managing Director Xiong Hongfeng symbolically adding Port City Colombo’s light to the wider “Lights of Hope” illuminating the Western Province. By linking a cherished festive tradition with a wider public initiative, the ceremony reaffirmed Port City Colombo’s role as a socially conscious development, conveying a message of unity and optimism during this period of national rebuilding and resilience.
