President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that Christianity has made a major contribution to education, and spiritual and moral enhancement of Sri Lankan society during the last 500 years, when His Eminence Antonio Cardinal Canizares, the Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments in the Vatican called on the President at Temple Trees yesterday (September 02).

President conveyed his gratitude to Vatican for the support extended and understanding expressed during the difficult times faced by Sri Lanka in the recent past. “I had the fortune of meeting His Holiness the Pope twice and I wish to do so at the next available opportunity once again,” said President Rajapaksa and expressed hope that His Holiness would be able to visit Sri Lanka.

Cardinal Canizares said he was impressed by the developments seen in Sri Lanka after a troubled period, and observed the good relations that existed between the Christian people, Clergy and the Government. “Sri Lanka is a very beautiful country and I wish to visit again,” Most Rev Canizares said and informed the President that he would convey the President's sentiments to His Holiness.

Vatican's Apostolio Nuncio in Sri Lanka, Most Rev Dr Joseph Spiteri, Archbishop of Colombo, Most Rev Dr Malcolm Ranjith, Ministers Milroy Fernando and Johnston Fernando, Deputy Ministers Dayasritha Tissera and Neomal Perera were also present on this occasion.