A special sitting of the Parliament was held today to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Parliamentary democracy in Sri Lanka.

The session, which began at 2.30 p.m., was attended by President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan and leaders of recognized political parties are expected to address the House.

Speakers and Deputy Speakers of parliaments of all SAARC countries as well as representatives of foreign countries will participate on this occasion.

After the special session signing of the guests’ book as well as issuing a commemorative stamp will also take place.

Issuing a press release, the Speaker said that at a time of celebrating the 70th anniversary, the Parliament has decided to overcome the challenges faced as a nation with courage.

With an uninterrupted record of democratic rule, Sri Lanka has the oldest parliament in the SAARC region whose representatives are appointed by universal franchise, the Speaker said.