20.7.2008

A large number of cinema and teledrama actors and actresses, male and female vocalists and numerous other artistes met President Mahinda Rajapaksa to extend their solidarity to him last week.

The meeting between local artistes and the President was held at Temple Trees in Colombo. They also discussed the present security and economic situation in the country. Brigadier Amal Karunasekera explained in detail about the forward march of battlefront heroes under excellent leadership.

Local artistes hailed the Government's programme aimed at strengthening the country's economy and the initiatives taken to protect the cinema and teledrama industry. A book entitled "Sinhalaye Maha Cinema Wansa Kathawa", "Liyathambara Magazine" and two other publications compiled by the veteran journalist Arthur U. Amarasena were presented to the President. Several other artistes presented their creations to President Rajapaksa on the occasion.

Ministers Anura Priyadharshana Yapa, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardhana, Governor of the Central Nank Ajith Nivard Cabraal and several officials also attended the meeting.