The President made these remarks participating in a religious ceremony to lay the foundation stone for the three-storey multipurpose building at the Sri Abhaya Raja Maha Vihara in Mawanella, Keppetipola yesterday (17th Nov.).

The President who arrived at the historic Sri Abhaya Raja Maha Vihara first engaged in religious observances.

Later, the President visited the Chief Incumbent of the Viharaya Ven. Mandawala Dhammarama Nayaka Thero.

The President who unveiled the plaque for the foundation stone of the three-storied multi-purpose building also planted a sapling in the premises of the temple.

He also opened the new solar power system of the temple.

Maha Nayaka of Kotte Sri Kalyani Samagri Sangha Sabha Ven. Iththepane Dhammalankara Thero delivered the sermon and Polonnaruwa Solosmasthanadhipathi, Anu Nayaka of Asgiri Chapter of Shyamopali Maha Nikaya Ven. Vendaruve Upali Thero evoked Panchasheela to the devotees.

Ms. R. P. M. Rathnayake, a retired teacher in Polhagawela presented Rs. 500,000 donation to the President to be used to build the three-storied building.

Ministers Kabir Hashim, Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Daya Gamage and the former Minister Athauda Senevirathne also were president at this occasion.