A commemorative stamp to mark the 50th anniversary of man’s first journey into space by Russian astronaut Yuri Gagarin was issued yesterday (26) at Temple Trees under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

At this ceremony the President said Yuri Gagarin is a hero to the entire mankind.

The President also recalled the Yuri Gagarin’s visit to Sri Lanka and the close relationship between Russia and Sri Lanka.

Participating at the event Chairman of the Sri Lanka Russian Friendship Association Vladimir Liyakov said it is historic and significant moment to issue a commemorative stamp for Russian astronaut in Sri Lanka.

A number of Ministers and Russian diplomats also participated in the ceremony.