Everyone is given freedom of religion: PM

COLOMBO (News 1st): The National Vesak festival was held today (May 18) for the second consecutive day at the Thelwaththe Ancient Thotagamu Ranpath Rajamaha Viharaya, in Hikkaduwa Galle. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in the religious observances. The event was also attended by Ministers Gamini Jayawickrema, Vajira Abeywardena, Gayantha Karunathilaka, the governor of the Southern Province Keerthi Tennakoon and several religious leaders. Following the religious observances, the Prime Minister addressing the gathering said that Buddhism should be protected since this is what gave birth to the civilization in our country and the Sinhalese community. He continued to say that since our constitution clearly states that Buddhism should be given priority that it will be followed so, while also having provided everyone with the freedom of religion.