Video: 66th Independence Day celebrated

Romesh P Tuesday, 04 February 2014 11:13 AM

Sixty five years ago on this day, when Sri Lanka, then Ceylon, received independence, our per capita income was Rs 397 (US$ 120 then), which was on par with Japan. At that time, the per capita income of South Korea was US$ 86, on par with South Sudan. Hong Kong was then, a fishing harbour.  Taiwan was guarding itself from marauding Maoists.    The departing British left a flourishing economy, which then had a surplus in the trade account and a Constitution that was meant to serve as the springboard for the infant nation to launch itself into a functioning democracy. What fallowed the departure of the British is now history. But how Sri Lanka squandered, big time, its post independent prospects for the next 65 years should kindle the research interests of political scientists.

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ravi Tuesday, 04 February 2014 11:54 AM

Romesh, super analysis. 90% of our citizens won't understand this. Now, look at Japan, south Korea and Singapore.
Its so unfortunate, we still live in dreams

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Sarath G Wednesday, 05 February 2014 12:26 AM

the 5th picture shows the true nature of our country.. the PM gets a smaller chair

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Concerned citizen Wednesday, 05 February 2014 09:17 AM

Yes, as the 2nd citizen of the country, he should have seated next to the Head of State.

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