The President of the United States of America Barack Obama said the US stands ready to continue their long-lasting bilateral partnership to help build a peaceful and prosperous Sri Lanka.

The US President in a message of congratulation to President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the occasion of country's Independence Day said for the first time in over a generation, Sri Lanka is not under the shadow of terrorism.

Full text of the message by the US President:

Dear Mr. President
I extend my very best wishes to you on behalf of the American people as Sri Lanka celebrates its National Independence on February 4.

The ties of friendship between our two peoples date back to 1789, when merchant ships from New England first sailed into Sri Lanka's harbors.

The United States celebrates this long friendship with the Sri Lankan people and sends its hopes for peace and prosperity throughout Sri Lanka in the coming year.

The recent end of the war creates a historic opportunity for Sri Lanka to heal the divisions of conflict, and build a society that offers equality and opportunity for all. For the first time on over a generation, Sri Lanka is not under the shadow of terrorism. I urge you to seize this opportunity to provide the leadership that will allow all Sri Lankans to come together and meet their aspirations to live in a country that is rooted in tolerance, respect for human rights,accountability, the rule of law, and freedom of the press- all elements essential for national reconciliation.

The United States stands ready to continue our long-lasting bilateral partnership to help build a peaceful and prosperous Sri Lanka.

Barack Obama
President of the United States of America

Courtesy: GDI