USA:
The United States of America (also referred to as the United States, the U.S., the USA, or America) is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district. The country is situated mostly in central North America, where its forty-eight contiguous states and Washington, D.C., the capital district, lie between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, bordered by Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. The state of Alaska is in the northwest of the continent, with Canada to the east and Russia to the west across the Bering Strait. The state of Hawaii is an archipelago in the mid-Pacific. The country also possesses several territories in the Caribbean and Pacific.

At 3.79 million square miles (9.83 million km2) and with over 310 million people, the United States is the third or fourth largest country by total area, and the third largest both by land area and population. It is one of the world's most ethnically diverse and multicultural nations, the product of large-scale immigration from many countries.The U.S. economy is the world's largest national economy, with an estimated 2010 GDP of $14.780 trillion (23% of nominal global GDP and 20% of global GDP at purchasing power parity).


Barack Hussein Obama II, born August 4, 1961 is the 44th and current President of the United States. He is the first African American to hold the office. Obama previously served as a United States senator from Illinois, from January 2005 until he resigned following his victory in the 2008 presidential election.


 

Joseph Robinette "Joe" Biden, Jr. born November 20, 1942 is the 47th and current Vice President of the United States, serving under President Barack Obama. He was a United States Senator from Delaware from January 3, 1973 until his resignation on January 15, 2009, following his election to the Vice Presidency.


 

Hillary Diane Rodham Clinton, born October 26, 1947 is the 67th United States Secretary of State, serving in the administration of President Barack Obama. She was a United States Senator for New York from 2001 to 2009. As the wife of the 42nd President of the United States, Bill Clinton, she was the First Lady of the United States from 1993 to 2001. In the 2008 election, Clinton was a leading candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination.

Facts and Figures:

OFFICIAL NAME: United States of America
CAPITAL CITY: Washington, D.C.
TOTAL AREA: 9,826,630 sq km (3rd largest in the world, behind Russia (1st) and Canada (2nd))
BIRTH RATE: 13.82 births/1,000 population
OVERALL LIFE EXPECTANCY: 78.11 years (75.65 years for men, 80.69 years for women)
POPULATION SIZE: 307,212,123 (3rd largest in the world, behind China (1st) and India (2nd))
URBANIZATION: 82% of total population
LITERACY RATE: 99% of total population
RELIGIONS: Protestant 51.3%, Roman Catholic 23.9%, Mormon 1.7%, other Christian 1.6%, Jewish 1.7%, Buddhist 0.7%, Muslim 0.6%, other or unspecified 2.5%, unaffiliated 12.1%, none 4% (2007 est.)


FLAG DESCRIPTION / SIGNIFICANCE: 13 equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white; there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing 50 small, white, five-pointed stars arranged in nine offset horizontal rows of six stars (top and bottom) alternating with rows of five stars; the 50 stars represent the 50 states, the 13 stripes represent the 13 original colonies; the design and colors have been the basis for a number of other flags, including Chile, Liberia, Malaysia, and Puerto Rico

Message from the U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives

This July 4 – celebrated as Independence Day in the United States – we recall our American beginnings.  Here in Sri Lanka, we also recall with pride that the relationship between our two countries also dates back to the earliest days of the United States.  Our relationship is broad, dynamic, mutually beneficial, and ever expanding.

On this 235th anniversary of American independence, our celebration focuses on youth.  The United Nations has designated 2011 as the International Year of Youth.  This year also marks the 50th anniversary of two initiatives, launched by our youngest-ever President, John F. Kennedy, to improve the lives of people around the world, especially young people -- the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Peace Corps.  

The focus on youth is timely and appropriate.  Roughly half of Sri Lankans are under the age of thirty.   That means that half of the country lacks a memory of pre-war Sri Lanka.  In so many ways, it will be up to this half of the population to define a new peaceful, united and democratic Sri Lanka.  

They are already beginning to make their mark.  Sri Lanka has too many youth organizations to name, but Sri Lanka Unites, Rotaract, the Weeramantry Center and Stitch have won praise, for their national conferences with youth from all regions; donation drives following the floods earlier this year; and exchange programs that bring young people from one region to another for community service projects.  The American Embassy has supported some of their efforts, but it’s their commitment, ideas, and dedication that make them the leaders of today.  

I’m gratified that much of USAID’s work focuses on youth, working closely with government, civil society, and youth leaders to help Sri Lanka’s young people open the doors to tomorrow.  Recently, for example, USAID organized a job fair in Vavuniya.  More than 3,200 young people received job offers with apparel manufacturers, produce suppliers, private banks, insurance agencies, and other employers.  

In another example, after the devastating floods earlier this year, USAID brought together young people from southern Sri Lanka to help their peers in the North.  Working hand-in-hand around Kilinochchi, it was the first time that most of the youth from the South had travelled to the North

At the American Center in Colombo and at the American Corners in Jaffna, Oluvil and Kandy, we organize essay contests, reading clubs, art workshops, and film screenings for young people.  We continue to support English language learning.  Last year, a young women’s rugby team from the United States visited Sri Lanka -- and was handily defeated by the Sri Lankan teams I might add.  This year, students from Elon University in North Carolina and Vanderbilt University in Tennessee traveled to Sri Lanka to work on environmental projects and to teach English classes in rural schools.

America’s relationship with Sri Lanka has a past, a present, and a future.  Those of us who are older can recall the many roads we have travelled together.  We older Americans can take pride in how our nation has helped Sri Lanka reach its dynamic present, even as the young join us with new expectations.  And it will not be long, though, before they take our place.

In his inaugural address in 1961, John Kennedy said “the torch has been passed to a new generation.”  Those of us who directly heard, and were inspired by, his words know that he spoke of a timeless process.  I use this occasion, which marks a milestone of the past, to look forward and to salute the young people of Sri Lanka who are working for a better future.

 Patricia A. Butenis

USAID activities in Sri Lanka

Declaration of Independence

Drafted by Thomas Jefferson, and issued from the U.S. Congress on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence is America’s most cherished symbol of liberty.  Over 75% of the American public consider it to be the most influential document in American history.  Here, in exalted and unforgettable phrases, Jefferson, who would later become President, expressed the convictions in the minds and hearts of the American people.  The political philosophy of the Declaration was not new; its ideals of individual liberty had already been expressed by philosophers, such as John Locke.  What Jefferson did was to summarize this philosophy into “self-evident truths” and set forth a list of grievances against the British King in order to justify before the world the breaking of ties between the colonies and the mother country.  

“When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government.”

The Declaration of Independence is currently displayed in the Rotunda of the National Archives Building in Washingon, DC, alongside the Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights.

NEW YEAR’S DAY:

Like many countries around the world, America celebrates the new year on January 1st, the first day on the American calendar. Americans celebrate New Year’s eve, the night leading into the first day of the new year, in many different ways - the most famous of which is the lowering of a large illuminated ball on top of a skyscraper in New York City’s Times Square. Although many Americans celebrate New Year’s eve by attending such displays, most Americans spend the evening with family and friends, usually at celebratory parties, and often watch the public displays on television instead. Both public and private New Year’s eve celebrations last until midnight, when the new year begins.
Many adults celebrate the beginning of the new year with a glass of champagne, and couples often exchange a kiss at the stroke of midnight. Many championship, or “bowl,” games for college-level American football take place later on New Year’s Day, making it an especially important occasion for sports fans.

Martin Luther King Day:

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day marks the birthday of the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. In the 1950’s and 1960’s, Dr. King was the chief spokesman of the nonviolent civil rights movement, which successfully opposed racial discrimination in American federal and state laws. Although he was assassinated in 1968, Dr. King’s legacy continues to have a strong impact on American politics and social life.  The holiday is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which always falls close to Dr. King's actual birthday of January 15. It is one of three United States federal holidays to commemorate an individual person. today.

 

WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY:

Washington's Birthday is celebrated on the third Monday of February. It is also commonly known as Presidents Day. Although schools and businesses previously were closed during the holiday, its proximity to Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, another holiday, led the Federal Government to honor both presidents on the same day. When Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was created as an additional day off of work, many employers stopped closing shop on Presidents’ Day to compensate for the new day off. Because many businesses now stay open during Washington’s Birthday, it has lost much of its luster in recent years. Today, Washington’s Birthday is most familiar to Americans as an occasion for special sales at retail outlets, particularly car dealerships.

 

MEMORIAL DAY:

Memorial Day is a national holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May. It commemorates U.S. men and women who died while serving in the military. Although the holiday was first enacted to honor veterans of the American Civil War, it was expanded after World War I to honor American casualties from any war or military action. Because the holiday falls on a Monday, many American families take advantage of the extended weekend to travel. Additionally, many Americans also hold “Memorial Day Barbeques,” outdoor cookouts where they gather with friends and family to enjoy grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, and other snacks.


 

INDEPENDENCE DAY:

American Independence Day is celebrated every year on July 4th. Commonly referred to as the Fourth of July, it commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The Declaration officially severed ties between the United States and the British Monarchy, and is the formal beginning of the American Revolution. A little known fact about the holiday is that the Declaration of Independence was actually signed on July 2, but the public did not know that it had been signed until two days later, at which point until the Declaration had been edited into its final form and was widely distributed. Americans commemorate the Fourth of July with outdoor picnics and barbeques, and sit down to enjoy elaborate fireworks displays at night.

 

LABOR DAY:

Labor Day is observed every year on the first Monday in September. The holiday originated in 1882 as the Central Labor Union of New York City sought to create "a day off for the working citizens," and the American Congress declared it a federal holiday on 1894. Traditionally, Labor Day is celebrated by most Americans as the symbolic end of the summer. Today, Labor Day is often regarded as a day of rest and parades, and an occasion for picnics, barbecues, water sports, and a last chance for travel before the end of summer. Labor Day marks the beginning of the American football season at both the professional and university level.


COLUMBUS DAY:

Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus’s discovery of America, and is celebrated on the second Monday in October. Many schools and businesses around the country close in recognition of the holiday, although many choose to stay open as well. Schools often have special lesson plans in the days leading up to the holiday that teach students about Columbus’s voyage and the importance of his arrival in the New World. Many members of the Italian-American community consider the holiday a celebration of their heritage.

 

VETERANS DAY:

Veterans Day is an annual American holiday honoring military veterans, and is celebrated on November 11. If November 11th falls on a weekend during a particular year, then the nearest weekday is designated for holiday leave. It was originally called Armistice Day, marking the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. In 1954 the name of the holiday was officially changed to Veterans Day, in order to recognize the sacrifices of American soldiers in subsequent military conflicts. Veterans Day is marked with parades and ceremonies to honor American servicemen and women around the country.

 

THANKSGIVING DAY:

Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November. Although it was historically a religious observation to give thanks to God, it is now considered a secular holiday. Thanksgiving commemorates early English settlers’ success and gratitude after surviving an especially brutal first winter in America. Most Americans celebrate by gathering at home with family or friends for a holiday feast. The feast reflects the food eaten by American colonists, traditionally featuring dishes like mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, sweet corn, other fall vegetables, and pumpkin pie. A full turkey (often baked or fried) serves as the meal’s centerpiece, and has become so symbolically linked with the holiday that Thanksgiving is often referred to as “Turkey Day.” Although the Thanksgiving feast may appear to be an unnecessary indulgence, Thanksgiving is also an occasion for community service. Many Americans help to feed the needy at Thanksgiving time, and most communities have annual food drives that collect packaged and canned foods for this purpose.

 

CHRISTMAS DAY:

Like in many countries around the world, Christmas Day is a cause for celebration in the United States. Celebrated on December 25th, Christmas gives Americans of all religions time away from work and school that they can spend with friends and family. Although many Christian Americans commemorate the holiday by exchanging presents, many Americans of other faiths engage in holiday gift giving as well. Although the holiday has a strong religious foundation that is a key part of many Americans’ Christmas experience, for other Americans the holiday’s festivities take on a more secular role of setting the mood at the beginning of the winter season. Many neighborhoods and public areas are illuminated with strings of lights to give a festive mood, with many of these displays installed shortly after Thanksgiving. Some of the more famous Christmas displays include an enormous Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center in New York City, and Washington D.C.’s impressive National Christmas Tree that is displayed across the street from the White House.

Other celebrations in US:  

 

HALLOWEEN:

Halloween is a non-Federal holiday celebrated on October 31. The day is often associated with the colors orange and black, and is strongly associated with symbols such as the jack-o'-lantern, a hollowed-out pumpkin whose sides are carved to create small openings that become illuminated when a lit candle is placed inside it. Halloween activities include bonfires, costume parties, visiting seasonal attractions, carving jack-o'-lanterns, reading scary stories, and watching horror movies. Perhaps the most notable Halloween activity, however, is called “trick-or-treating.”

 

VALENTINE’S DAY:

Americans celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th. Although Valentine’s Day is not a Federal Holiday, it is nonetheless an important holiday for many Americans. The day is most closely associated with the mutual exchange of love notes in the form of "valentines". Valentine’s Day symbols include the heart-shaped outlines, doves, and images of the winged Cupid.


         

Basic facts about Russia

Russia is the largest country on earth, covering 17,075,000 square kilometers. Occupying the eastern part of Europe and the northern part of Asia, Russia is washed by the Arctic Ocean on the north and the Pacific Ocean on the east. To the west and south-west the country has exits to the Atlantic Ocean through Baltic and Black seas. Russia spreads over nine time zones.

The Russian plain extend throughout the western part of the country as far as the Urals, which run from the Arctic Ocean to the steppes of Kazakhstan. Beyond the Ural Mountains stretches the West Siberian plain. More to the east, between the River Lena and River Yenisei, is the Central Siberian Plateau. The Russian plain is bordered on the south by the Caucasian mountain range. Extremely wide rivers Ob, Lena and Yenisei flow into the Arctic Ocean from the Altai and Sayan Mountains.  The Sayan Range is bordered on the east by the mountains of the Baikal region. Lake Baikal is the world's oldest and deepest lake with average depth of 744.4 metres. In the Far East, the Sikhote-Alin Range runs parallel to the shore of the Pacific Ocean. The Kamchatka peninsula is also mountainous.

According to the population census of October 2010 Russia is inhabited by 142,9 million people of 130 nationalities. 78.5% of the population live in the European half of the country. The overwhelming majority of citizens are Russians.

The State structure of the Russian Federation is defined by the Constitution passed on 12 December 1993. The Head of State of Russia and the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces is the President, who is elected for a six-year term by secret ballot based on general egalitarian and direct voting law.

Russian political system is a multi-party one with the ruling United Russia party being a dominant force. Presently four parties are represented in the federal parliament (the State Duma) – "United Russia", Communist Party, Liberal Democratic Party, "Just Russia" Party.

Russia is rich in natural resources, with large reserves of iron, nickel, aluminium and other metal ores, coal, oil, natural gas, tungsten, molybdenum, mercury and gold.

Russian industry is world-famous for its high technological level and science-intensive products. Heavy machine construction is currently the leader, producing steam and gas equipment, turbines, large motors and current isolators, boilers, steam generators and petroleum chemicals.

Russia is famous for its scientific achievements. The first ever launch of a rocket with "sputnik" (satellite) to outerspace and then the  first cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, space stations, the first nuclear-powered ice-breaker reaching North Pole, modern nuclear power stations, Nobel prize winners in biology, mathematics, physics and other spheres – are only few to mention. Young Russian computer specialists are winners of many international competitions, including the World championship – 2011, and are welcomed throughout the world.

Culture and arts of the multinational Russian Federation have won hearts of people all round the globe. Many foreign tourists come to Moscow, St. Petersburg and other cities of Russia to visit world famous museums, ancient palaces, theaters and art galleries, to hear opera singers, classical and modern music, to watch  world number one Russian classical ballet or modern performances. Russian literature needs no advertisement: names of Pushkin, Gogol, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Yesenin, Sholokhov, Gorky, Chekhov, Pasternak, Bunin and many other poets and writers are well known to any man of culture. Music of such composers as Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, Rakhmaninov, Shostakovich, Prokofiev rank among the finest world achievements in this sphere. Russian films are always among highest prize winners at various international film festivals.

Russia
Official Name:             Russian Federation
Capital:                        Moscow
(and largest city)
Official language(s)    Russian official throughout the country
Ethnic groups:             Russians 79.8%, Tatars 3.8%, Ukrainians 2%,

                                      Bashkirs 1.2%,  Chuvashes 1.1%, Chechens 0.9%,                                                      Armenians 0.8%, other 10.4%
Demonym:                    Russian
Government:                Federal semi-presidential republic  -  

President:                     Dmitry Medvedev  
Prime Minister:            Vladimir Putin
Chairman of the Federation Council:    Alexander Torshin (acting)  
Chairman of the State Duma:                 Boris Gryzlov
Legislature:                                               Federal Assembly   
Upper House - Federation Council  -
Lower House -  State Duma
Area :                     Total 17,075,400 km2 (1st) 6,592,800 sq mi   
Water (%) 13[2] (including swamps)
Population:              2010 census 142,905,
GDP (PPP):            2010 estimate   
Total $2.219 trillion
Per capita $15,807
GDP (nominal):      2010 estimate - Total $1.477 trillion
Per capita $10,522
Currency:                Ruble (RUB)
Time zone:              UTC+2 to +11 (exc. +4) -  
Summer:                 (DST)  (UTC+3 to +12 (exc. +5)  



 

Message of His Excellency Mr. Vladimir P. Mikhaylov,

Ambassador of the Russian Federation in Sri Lanka

Dear Sri Lankan friends!

It gives me great pleasure to address friendly people of Sri Lanka on the occasion of the Day of Russia that is celebrated on June 12. This day the Russian people at home and around the globe rejoice with strong patriotic sentiments in their hearts and honour our Motherland, a country with more than thousand-year-long history, unique legacy and culture, which has united on a vast expanse a multitude of peoples, religions and languages.

The National Day of the Russian Federation was established in 1990 to mark the beginning of a new era in its history – foundation of a new, democratic state. Present-time Russia is a strong nation with stable political, economic and social structure which provides necessary foundation for its successful development in all spheres and most efficient use of our rich human and natural resources.

Absolute priority for the Russian Government is to fulfill its social commitments for the welfare of its citizens. Today Russia is engaged in modernization of its economy based on innovations, investments, infrastructure development and strengthening of contemporary state and public institutions.

Russia believes that its successful development needs democratic and just international relations both in political and economic spheres. One of the main goals of the Russian foreign policy is the establishment of a new, multipolar global architecture of international relations based upon international law and principles of the UN Charter.

As it was stated by H.E. President of the Russian Federation Dmitry A. Medvedev, the central aim of the Russian foreign policy is to create favourable conditions for the comprehensive development of the country, high-grade modernization of its economy and thereupon – securing the deserved place for the Russian Federation in the international relations system. Russian foreign policy maintains multiple-vector character, it is open for cooperation on the principles of equality and respect of mutual interests with all those ready for that.

Russia is not only European but also an Asian country, not just because of its geographic location but due to its history, culture and religions. Russian people have the unique experience to live peacefully together with many ethnicities. It gives our country the opportunity to become a strong bridge between the East and the West.

Relations of the Russian Federation with the states and organizations of the Asia – Pacific region are developing especially active. Russia joined the East Asian Summits, "Asia – Europe" forum, Bali democratic forum. Activity to establish new security and cooperation architecture in the region, including promotion of the respective Russia – China initiative gained new momentum.   Participation of Russia in G-8, Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS is another important resource of its activity in the "multipolar dimension".

H.E. Dmitry Medvedev in his recent speech at the BRICS summit in Sanya stressed that Russia’s future is inseparably tied with Asia-Pacific region just because Russia itself is a part of it and interested in its quickest progress. High-tech economy, modern energetics, transport and logistics are the areas that could give a powerful incentive for regional collaboration. More and more regional partners see Russia as factor of stability and steady development.

It is obvious, that only by joint efforts, acting on the basis of common principles and avoiding double standards we can face the modern challenges such as terrorism, religious and national extremism, drug crimes, sea piracy, climate changes, natural hazards, epidemics, financial crises, energy and food shortages.

The friendly relations between Russia and Sri Lanka are time-tested, strong and sincere. Russia supported struggle of the legitimate government of Sri Lanka against terrorists and separatists and welcomed its efforts to make  the island "the oasis of prosperity in Asia”. We are sure that nobody in the world is more interested in the earliest complete reconciliation, then the people of Sri Lanka, and hope that they will make this dream true in near future with support of friendly nations.

Moscow and Colombo have similar views on almost every aspect of the international agenda and support each other's initiatives at various organizations and fora. The exchange of delegations and opinions on further strengthening of bilateral ties intensifies. The past year was marked with significant achievements in bilateral cooperation. The Sri Lanka – Russia Parliamentary Friendship Association was created under patronage of Hon. Chamal Rajapaksa, Speaker of Parliament with Hon. Susil Premajayantha being its President, with Hon. D.E.W.Gunasekera, Hon. Basil Rajapaksa and Hon. Ponnambalam Selvarasa elected as Vice-Presidents and Hon. Wimal Weerawansa – as its Secretary. I am sure that active collaboration of this Association with the similar Russian one can greatly contribute to strengthening the bilateral ties.

I hope many Sri Lankans remember friendly visit to Colombo of the Flag Ship of the Russian Navy Black Sea Fleet missile cruiser “Moskva” in August 2010 and participation of the major anti-submarine ship of the Russian Pacific Fleet "Admiral Vinogradov" in the 60th Jubilee of the Sri Lanka Navy.

Colombo became even more beautiful when last August the sculptural portrait of the great Russian writer Anton Chekhov was unveiled in Grand Oriental Hotel and the plaque dedicated to his 150th birth anniversary and 120 years since he visited Ceylon was unveiled in the Galle Face Hotel in December.

In April 2011 Sri Lanka and Russia jointly celebrated the 50th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin flight to outer space. The bust of the first cosmonaut was unveiled in the Galle Face Hotel by Hon. D.M.Jayarathne, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, and Russian cosmonaut V.A.Lyakhov. A special mail stamp was issued and solemnly cancelled at the presence of H.E. Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka, in commemoration of the flight and the 50th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin visit to Ceylon.

Russian businessmen expressed their readiness to participate in house construction and other economic projects in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is a magnet for many Russians who want to explore the magic and hospitality of this beautiful island. The forthcoming start of direct flights between Moscow and Colombo will make their journeys easier.

The Government of the Russian Federation sent one more aircraft with 30 tons of humanitarian aid to Colombo to assist floods victims and recently $ 3,4 mln. were transferred to the Fund of the International Civil Defence Organization specifically to finance the costs of the humanitarian demining in Sri Lanka.

There is no doubt that friendly relations between Russia and Sri Lanka will further strengthen and develop for the benefit of the peoples of our countries. The forthcoming visit of H.E. Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka, to Russia to participate in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum will certainly give new impetus to our cooperation and deepen mutual understanding.

Finally, I’d like to extend to the friendly people of Sri Lanka, H.E. President M. Rajapaksa   and the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka my cordial wishes of prosperity, continued progress and peace and thank all those who have sent congratulations with the Day of Russia and expressed warm feelings toward the Russian Federation.

Russian traditions

In ancient times, the territory of Russia was inhabited by Eastern Slavic tribes. The modern population of Russia is mostly descended from these tall, handsome, strapping men and women. Much has been passed down through the ages and generations, retained in our physical appearances, characters, habits and customs. The ancestors tilled the soul (bread was their main food), bred cattle, hunted, fished and kept bees. They were pagans and worshipped the gods of the sun (known as Dazbog or Jarilo), wind (Stribog) and thinder (Perun). The end of the frosts signaled widespread festivities, seeing of the winter and greeting the spring. People baked round pancakes symbolizing the sun and burnt straw effigies of winter.

A special atmosphere of cordiality arises whenever close friends and relatives gather for refreshments or conversation. Drinking tea with spice cakes, ginger-bread, biscuits, pies and pancakes is a Russian national custom. There is something magically enchanting about sitting around the samovar with a steaming cup of tea. The character of the Russian people is reflected in its love of festivities, accompanied by mass gatherings, traditional games, singing, dancing and other forms of entertainment.

The Christmas Eve is celebrated on the 6th of January, modern calendar, which is 24th of December by Orthodox calendar. Carol-singers dress up and go round all the houses in the village, praising the birth of the Saviour.

Fishing is one of the most popular pastimes of the Russian people. Fishing under the ice is as important as summer angling in a country with such long and arduous winters as Russia. Hunting was both a necessity of life and a popular pastime in Russia.

For Russians there is nothing healthier and better than native Russian food, to which they are accustomed, derived from the experience of the centuries, handed down from fathers to children and justified by geographical location, climate and lifestyle. One of the staple Russian fares has always been "kasha", or porridge, which also has a ritual significance. It was eaten to celebrate the birth of a new baby or to remember the dead. The bride and groom cooked porridge at their wedding, leading to the popular expression "you won't cook porridge with him or her". Bread and grain are the two main foodstuffs in Russia, reflected in such national adages as "buckwheat porridge is our mother and rye bread is our father".

Special attention was paid to the construction and decoration of houses. As forests grew everywhere, the most accessible building material was wood. Clay and the potter's wheel were another traditional medium and technique in Russia. Clay vessels were fired in kilns and decorated with simple ornamentation. There are two wooden souvenirs that can be found in almost every American, British, German, French or other tourist's suitcase returning home from Russia: one is a "Matryoshka" doll, the other – apiece of "Khokhloma".

Russia is a multi-religious state

Russia is a multi-confessional country, inhabited by Orthodox Christians, Muslims, Catholics, Buddhists, Jews and representatives of other religions.

The acceptance of Orthodox (Eastern) Christianity in 998 marked the start of a new historical period, linking Russia to Christian culture and making Orthodox Christianity the basis of the way of life of its people.

There are at least fifteen million adherents of Islam in Russia. They are mostly concentrated in the Volga region of central Russia, Western Siberia, the Caucasus, Moscow Region. St. Petersburg Mosque, when built, was the largest in Europe and the most northern in the world. Recently the newly constructed mosque in the capital of Chechnya – Grozny city has become the biggest.

In 1841, Buddhism – in the form of Lamaism or Tibetan Buddhism – was recognized as one of the official religions of the Russian Empire. The first Buddhist university monastery – Tamchinsky Datsan – was founded in Buryatia. A datsan was even opened in St. Petersburg, the capital of the Russian Empire. A Buddhist temple continues its functioning in St. Petersburg now. Some societies even invite monks from foreign countries, including Sri Lanka, to improve their knowledge of Buddhism and to practice meditation.

Relations between the Buddhists of Sri Lanka and Russia started to strengthen in 1958 when the two countries established diplomatic relations. The most important event in bilateral relations was the awarding of the Lenin Peace Prize to Rev. Udukandawala Siri Saranankara in February 1958 for his campaign against nuclear tests on the Christmas Islands in the Pacific. Exchanges of religious delegations increased during the sixties, and a representative delegation led by the chief priests of Asgiriya and Malwatta temples visited the Soviet Union in the eighties. On almost every occasion Sri Lankan monks have visited the Ivolginsky temple in Buryatia.

The recent visit of the former president of Kalmikia Mr. Kirsan Ilyumzhinov to Sri Lanka and his meetings with President of Sri Lanka Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa and Prime Minister of Sri Lanka D.M.Jayarathne gave impetus to the development and strengthening of ties between the Buddhists of the two countries.

Judaism is also a traditional confession in Russia. Our country has the world's third largest number of Jewish religious communities after Israel and the United States. More than a hundred years ago, large synagogues were built in both Moscow and St. Petersburg. Synagogues also function in many other towns.


RUSSIAN BALLET

In Russia, ballet is passion shared by most people there. Most girls in Russia dream of becoming a ballerina. Becoming a ballerina requires eight years of study.

The most prestigious academy is the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, located in St. Petersburg, Russia. The Vaganova Academy was established in 1738.

The most prestigious dance company is known as the Mariinsky Theatre. The Mariinsky is housed in Russia's most prestigious ballet theatre. In order to be selected by The Mariinsky Theatre, a ballerina has to be the best of the best.  The Ballet Theatre has one hundred and twenty female dancers and one hundred male dancers.

There are some very dedicated artists, these individuals are so dedicated to their craft, that they even come to the theatre to practice on their day of. The main objective of most dancers is to become, a prima ballerina. In Russia prima ballerinas are treated with great respect, they have a prestigious standing in Russian Society.

Russian Ballet is considered more extreme, than how it is practiced in the rest of the planet. To the Russian people, ballet is considered an art to be revered, at the end of each performance, many of the admirers gather at the back of the theatre to greet the performers and to give them gifts. The exchange between the admirers and the cherished performers is very emotional and full of love.

Russian Ballerinas are in a class all by themselves. With their rigorous training and their selfless devotion to the art of ballet, they have taken the dance to new heights. These stars of today and tomorrow are honored in the ballet documentary Ballerina.


Russia and Sri Lanka:
Close Friends and Equal Partners

The first visit of Russians to Ceylon was registered in 1799, when Navy officer Yuri Lisiansky and his friends came ashore in Galle. Then count Saltykov came to Ceylon twice – in 1841 and 1845-46 and later published a book of his impressions of the beautiful and exotic country, its people and their culture, religion and traditions.

Early in the 90-s of 19th century Anton Chekhov and Ivan Bunin – two prominent Russian writers – traveled around Ceylon. A.Chekhov went to Kandy and described the island as a "paradise". I.Bunin visited Anuradhapura – the ancient capital of the country, both of them reminisced the sojourn in "God blessed land" in their stories, verses and letters that are still popular among the audience.

The first official representative of the Russian Empire – honourary consul in Galle – was appointed in 1882, and vice-consul in Colombo – in 1887. Diplomatic relations between the USSR and Ceylon were established on February 19, 1957.

The Soviet Union strongly supported anti-colonial struggle of the people of Ceylon. The Agreement on cooperation in economic and technical spheres between the Soviet Union and Ceylon signed on February 25, 1958 laid basis for steady and progressive development of bilateral ties. The USSR assisted Ceylon in construction of Oruwala Steel and Modera Flour Mills, Kelaniya Tyre Factory,  Samanala Weva hydro-energetic project and others. Due assistance was given by Soviet experts in defence and education. In 1961 Yury Gagarin – the first cosmonaut – visited Ceylon with his wife, where they received extremely warm welcome.

After disintegration of the Soviet Union some decline in bilateral contacts and cooperation was seen, though mutual friendly feelings remained strong. Gradually, with the Russian Federation gaining its proper place and role on the international arena, relations between our two states, official and public contacts in all spheres became more intensive.

At present the ties between Moscow and Colombo based on mutual respect, understanding and cooperation continue to strengthen. Our two countries enjoyed intensive and fruitful political dialogue. In October 2009 Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov paid a visit to Colombo, was received by H.E. the President of Sri Lanka M.Rajapaksa and held talks with his counterpart. Both heads of the foreign ministries confirmed traditionally friendly nature of bilateral relations and close approaches to key international issues. In February 2010 H.E. the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa made his first landmark working visit to the Russian Federation and received warm welcome from the Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. During the talks the two sides reiterated their positions on counter-terrorism efforts, signed an agreement in the sphere of military-technical assistance and MoU on cooperation in mass communications. At the meeting with academia in the Moscow Peoples’ Friendship University M.Rajapaksa was awarded honourary title of the Doctor of Sciences.

The Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Russia and Sri Lanka hold regular ministerial level consultations. Moscow and Colombo reiterated their similar approaches to the key international issues such as fair world order, the UN central role on the international arena, non-militarization of outer space, peaceful settlement of regional conflicts, etc.

The peoples of Russia and Sri Lanka are well aware of the atrocious and devastating essence of terrorism. Having suffered itself from separatism and international terrorism Russia unflinchingly supported the efforts of the Government of Sri Lanka to eradicate these evils, welcomed post-war reconciliation and development.

Nowadays Russian and Sri Lankan business communities show keen and growing interest for widening the scope of bilateral economic and commercial cooperation into new fields. More Russian tourists visit Sri Lanka and enjoy the hospitality and natural beauties of the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean". Both sides attach great significance to the speediest completion of deliberations on bilateral draft Agreements, which can facilitate process of fostering our links. It is also worth mentioning that Russian and Sri Lankan Sides are closely working on possible participation of the Russian companies in a number of projects concerning modernization and uplifting of certain industrial facilities of Sri Lanka with active involvement of the Sri Lanka – Russia Business Council.

In March 2011 the Sri Lanka – Russia Parliamentary Friendship Association was established with the aim to strengthen inter-parliamentary cooperation.

Russia has also helped the people of Sri Lanka to cope with natural disasters and humanitarian problems. After heavy rains and floods in the east of the island  the Government of the Russian Federation in March 2011 sent a special aircraft  with 30 tons of humanitarian aid. The Russian Federation continues to assist Sri Lankan Government in landmine clearance of the liberated territories by providing necessary financial assistance.

Taking into consideration time-tested nature of the Russia – Sri Lanka bonds of friendship and cooperation, we are confident that there are bright  opportunities for their even more fruitful development in the future.


 

ITALY

Italy, officially the Italian Republic, is a unitary parliamentary republic in south-central Europe. To the north it borders France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia along the Alps. To the south it consists of the entirety of the Italian Peninsula, Sicily, Sardinia—the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea—and many other smaller islands. The independent states of San Marino and the Vatican City are enclaves within Italy, whilst Campione d'Italia is an Italian exclave in Switzerland. The territory of Italy covers some 301,338 km2 (116,347 sq mi) and is influenced by a temperate seasonal climate. With 60.6 million inhabitants, it is the fifth most populous country in Europe, and the 23rd most populous in the world.

  President - Giorgio Napolitano, born 29 June 1925 is an Italian politician and former lifetime senator, the 11th and current President of the Italian Republic. His election took place on 10 May 2006, and his term started with the swearing-in ceremony held on 15 May 2006. He is the first President of Italy to have been a member of the Italian Communist Party.

Prime Minister - Silvio Berlusconi, born 29 September 1936) is an Italian politician, the current Prime Minister of Italy, as well as an entrepreneur. He is also known under the nickname Il Cavaliere (literally, The Knight), due to the knighthood Order of Merit for Labour which he received in 1977.
He is the second longest-serving Prime Minister of Italy, after Benito Mussolini. He held this position on three separate occasions: from 1994 to 1995, from 2001 to 2006 and currently since 2008.

Capital                            Rome
(and largest city)     41°54′N 12°29′E
Official language(s)     Italian
Demonym     Italian
Government     Unitary parliamentary republic
President     Giorgio Napolitano
Prime Minister     Silvio Berlusconi (PdL)
Legislature     Parliament
Upper House     Senate of the Republic
Lower House     Chamber of Deputies
Formation
Unification     17 March 1861
Republic     2 June 1946
Area
Total     301,338 km2 (71st)
116,346 sq mi
Water (%)     2.4
Population
2010 estimate     60,605,053[2] (23rd)
2001 census     56,995,744
Density     201.1/km2 (61st)
520.9/sq mi
Currency     Euro (€)  (EUR)

MESSAGE FROM THE AMBASSADOR OF ITALY, FABRIZIO PIO ARPEA

As Ambassador of Italy in Sri Lanka, on the occasion of the celebration of the Italian National day, I am pleased to acknowledge the excellent status of the bilateral relations between our two Countries.

Trade has constantly increased, with the commercial balance largely in favour of Sri Lanka. Even during the difficult years of the conflict, Italian investors have not turned away, but have kept their confidence in the long-term possibilities of the Srilankan economy. Now, with the achievement of peace and stability, as well as with the ongoing process of national reconciliation, investors from Italy show a growing interest in the potential of sectors such as tourism or textile manufacturing.

Although the relations between our two Countries date back to the Roman Empire, they were enhanced tremendously as a consequence of Italy’s participation in the post-tsunami reconstruction. Almost 100 million EUROS of Italian public and private funds have been spent for the implementation of over 100 projects. To this respect I wish to highlight how more than half of this amount was the direct contribution of the Italian people, who gave spontaneously and generously to help the reconstruction of a Friend Country dramatically hit by unpredictable forces of nature.

Also during the recent floods which have heavily affected large areas of the North and East of the Country, the Government of Italy was able to promptly organize a flight of humanitarian goods for the benefit of the local population.

This year Italy celebrates the 150th anniversary of Unity, a process which took time, will, commitment and a large share of suffering for the families of all those who sacrificed their lives while fighting for freedom and independence. The Embassy of Italy will organize a series of events to celebrate this important moment of our national history, starting from a concert of classical music. I will continue the commitment to spread among our Srilankan friends the knowledge of the Italian culture in all its aspects: music, opera, cinema, visual art, fashion, design.

The links between our two Governments have been strenghtened by the confirmation, year after year, of the provision of a quota for working visas, both seasonal and non seasonal, in favour of Srilankan citizens. The presence of a peaceful, hard-working and increasingly integrated srilankan community in Italy is the best example of the closeness of people. In order to further enhance the integration of Srilankan citizens in Italy, we have recently signed a bilateral agreement on the recognition of driving licences, so that Srilankans residents in Italy will be able to drive without the need of an exam.

The cooperation between the two Countries continues in different areas: an Italian expert in frescos and mural paintings, Fabrizio Bandini from the Opificio delle Pietre Dure in Florence, a world famous Italian institute specialized in the restoration of artworks, has just spent three weeks in Sri Lanka to provide his assistance and advice for the conservation of the numerous archaeological sites of the Country. He has visited the major historic sites, like Sigiryia, Dambulla, Kandy, Polonnaruwa, and has conducted workshops with srilankan experts in the field. This is the follow-up of a long-established collaboration between Italy and Sri Lanka, which started in the 60s with the visits of Professor Luciano Maranzi from Rome, who helped the Srilankan experts to restore the Sigiriya frescos after they were vandalised.

Sri Lanka is now facing a new beginning, and Italy hopes that the political institutions and the different communities of the Country will approach the challenges ahead with mutual understanding, pragmatism, fairness and generosity. The stable political framework which the Country enjoys will facilitate the shaping of a Sri Lanka in which every individual will be able to express the pride to be member of a just and equal society.

On behalf of the Italian people and Governement, I avail myself of this opportunity to wish peace, stability and prosperity to Sri Lanka and all Srilankans, as well as a long and strong friendship between our two Countries.

Sri Lanka-Italy Friendship Society

Founded by a group of Italians and their Srilankan friends under the patronage of the Italian Embassy, the Sri Lanka Italy Friendship Society has been promoting the development of ties and friendship since its inception in the early seventies.

In the year 2000 the activities start to intensify and many cultural and social events were organised.

Under the presidencies of Dr. Sebastian Pillai and Dr. Carlo Andrenelli the charity activities start to develop with targeted events.

Proceeds from these events have supported different charities in Sri Lanka.
Last year’s beneficiaries were the Centre for Performing Arts under Father Saveri and a home for elders, as well as Shanti Community Animation Movement, established by Father Catalano.

This year the society has enhanced the charity activity and extended its support to The Daughters of Providence for the Deaf & Dumb under Mather Chidinma Onyeozin and Rekawa Foundation - Protection For The Unprotected.

Beatrix of the Netherlands – The Head of State

Beatrix (Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard; born 31 January 1938) is the queen regnant of the Kingdom of the Netherlands comprising the Netherlands, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and Aruba. She is the first daughter of Queen Juliana of the Netherlands and Prince Bernhard of Lippe-Biesterfeld. She studied law at Leiden University. In 1966, she married Claus von Amsberg, with whom she had three children: Prince Willem-Alexander (born 1967), Prince Friso (born 1968), and Prince Constantijn (born 1969). When her mother Juliana abdicated on 30 April 1980, Beatrix succeeded her as Queen of the Netherlands. She was widowed in 2002.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte (VVD) 

Mark Rutte born 14 February 1967) is a Dutch politician of the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD). He has been the Prime Minister of the Netherlands since 14 October 2010.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located mainly in North-West Europe and with parts in the Caribbean. It is a parliamentary democratic constitutional monarchy. Mainland Netherlands borders the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south, and Germany to the east, and shares maritime borders with Belgium, Germany and the United Kingdom. The capital is Amsterdam and the seat of government is The Hague.

The Netherlands in its entirety is often referred to as Holland, although North and South Holland are actually only two of its twelve provinces. The word Dutch is used to refer to the people, the language, and anything pertaining to the Netherlands.

The Netherlands is a geographically low-lying country, with about 25% of its area and 21% of its population located below sea level, and 50% of its land lying less than one metre above sea level. Significant land area has been gained through land reclamation and preserved through an elaborate system of polders and dikes. Much of the Netherlands is formed by the estuary of three important European rivers, which together with their distributaries form the Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt delta. Most of the country is very flat, with the exception of foothills in the far southeast and several low-hill ranges in the central parts. The BES islands, or Caribbean Netherlands, became part of the Netherlands proper after the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles on 10 October 2010.

Capital and largest city                         Amsterdam
Official language                                    Dutch
Recognised regional languages          Frisian (in Friesland),
                                                                 Papiamento (in Bonaire),                                                                    English (in Saint Eustatius,Saba)

Ethnic groups                      Dutch80.7%,
                                              EU 5%,
                                              Indonesian 2.4%
                                              Turkish2.2%,
                                             Surinamese2%,    
                                             Moroccan 2%,
                                             Dutch Caribbean 0.8%,
                                             other 4.8%

Demonym Dutch
Government Parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarch  -  

Monarch – Queen Beatrix  

Prime Minister Mark Rutte (VVD)  


Deputy Prime Minister      Maxime Verhagen (CDA)
Legislature States-            General  -  
Upper House                      Senate  -  
Lower House                    House of Representatives
Independence                   As result of the Eighty Years' Warfrom the Spanish Empire  -  
Declared                            26 July 1581   -  
Recognized                       30 January 1648  
EU accession                   25 March 1957
Area  -                              Total 41,848 km2 (135th) 16,158 sq mi   -
                                           Water (%) 18.41
Population  -                  2011 estimate 16,665,000[3] (61st)  -  
Density                           401.3/km2 (28th)1,039.4/sq mi
Currency                         Euro (€)

Message from the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands HE Mrs Leoni Cuelenaere in Colombo

On the occasion of our Queen's Day, April 30, when Her Majesty Queen Beatrix officially celebrates her birthday, I am happy to pen these few lines to supplement this Royal celebration.  In the Netherlands festive events are organised throughout the country and Netherlands diplomatic missions throughout the world organise receptions and special events to honour Her Majesty the Queen on this day.

Here in Sri Lanka the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands also takes an active part to mark this as a very special and significant day.  Since four hundred years, the relations between the Netherlands and Sri Lanka have grown remarkably.  Trade has been the forte in the Dutch history and it is the very thing that brought our ancestors to explore Sri Lanka.  The Dutch traders were immensely attracted to trading spices from Sri Lanka.  Although more than four hundred years have since gone by, we greatly value the mutual heritage that we share with this beautiful island.  The two nations have remained friends since then and the Netherlands has happily extended its co-operation towards the development of Sri Lanka.  

With the assistance of the Netherlands Government we have completed the projects undertaken with the Southern Cultural Triangle Concept.  In Galle, the conservation of the Old Dutch warehouse and rehabilitation of the maritime museum and the conservation of the ancient ramparts of the Fort can be highlighted as the key projects that are now being concluded.  The Construction of the museum cum visitor’s centre in Kataragama foremost benefit the local population in the Southern region and as well as others from various parts of the country to promote mutual understanding among different cultures.  The restoration and conservation work of the ancient Dutch Naval Commissioner’s House in Trincomalee has been completed and it will be ceremonially opened to the public shortly. The Jaffna Fort is also being conserved with the assistance of the Netherlands Government.

Trade receives the top most priority as it is the defining factor in the Dutch history.  In the current context, although trading has changed its outfit since ancient times, the Netherlands markets many of its products and services throughout the world.  A number of Dutch companies are represented in Sri Lanka and I am happy to mention here that bilateral trade between our two countries is growing remarkably.  The Netherlands also contributes its assistance to the environment and water sectors, good governance and human rights as these are highlighted areas of the Dutch policy.

I am also happy to mention here that the political interests of the Sri Lankan Parliamentarians in the democratic parliamentary system in the Netherlands have pursued them to revive the Netherlands Sri Lanka Parliamentary Friendship Association recently.  This will no doubt give more opportunities for political co-operation between the two nations.

Finally in conclusion, I would like to reiterate that the Embassy of the Kingdom of The Netherlands in Colombo is firmly committed to further strengthen the cordial and friendly bilateral relations that happily exist between our two nations.

Holland or the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is often called Holland, because of the role the two western provinces North and South Holland played in its history. This region encompasses Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and other well-known Dutch cities such as Delft, Leiden and Haarlem. However, officially, it is the Kingdom of the Netherlands, consisting of three parts: the Netherlands itself in Western Europe, the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba in the Caribbean.

The country and its people

More than 16 million people call the Netherlands home. It is the most densely populated country in Europe and one of the most densely populated countries in the world. More than forty percent of the total population lives in the urban agglomeration area called the Randstad.

Rulers
50 BC - 400 AD The Romans
400-800 AD - The Franks
800-1200 AD - German Rule
1300-1600 - Various Rulers
1500-1700 - The Battle against the Spaniards
1600-1800 - The Golden Age
1790-1932 - The Independent Kingdom
1940-1945 - World War II

Queen's Day

Queen’s Day, 30 April, is a national holiday in the Netherlands. On this day, the entire country is coloured in orange. Events and celebrations are held throughout the country, including the popular ‘Queen’s Night’ celebration in The Hague on the eve before Queen’s Day and the public street market in Amsterdam on the holiday itself - regardless of the weather. The Royal family visits one to two towns each year. The current queen, Queen Beatrix, was actually born on 31 January, but the tradition of celebrating the birthday of her mother, the former Queen Juliana (1909-2004), has been upheld.