Full message is as follows:

"This is spring. During this season all Sri Lankans celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year irrespective of their race, caste or creed.

"Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a national festival which embellishes the national unity, brotherhood, equality, pleasure and prosperity of which traditions are embedded in the culture of Sri Lankans whose lives are mostly based on an Agricultural economy since distance past,

"We are marching towards a new political culture for the progress of the entire nation where ethnic, religious and Political differences have no value. It is unique that, in this year people are able to celebrate the New Year without any pressure, fear or suppression.

"I wish you all, a very happy and a prosperous New Year! "