President Maithripala Sirisena pledged to safeguard Sri Lanka's sovereignty and national integrity when working on the UNHRC Resolution which was passed in Geneva last year.

Speaking at the 68th Independence Day celebrations, the President stressed on the need to step into the modern world, achieving economic development, while preserving the local culture, traditions and technology.

The government is resolved to continue in the path of democracy to create a socio-political environment for all citizens to live securely without fear, he added.

Speaking on the country's foreign policy, Sirisena said that Sri Lankan foreign policy of middle path, with a commitment to justice and humanity, has won it friends in the international community, who are ready to help the country in its march toward prosperity.