President inaugurates maritime museum in Trincomalee
The President has inaugurated the maritime museum in Trincomalee.
The maritime museum in Trincomalee which was renovated in view of the 65th Independence Day celebration was inaugurated by President Mahinda Rajapaksa today. The work was carried out under the Sri Lanka-Netherlands cultural cooperation programme with the guidance of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The work was carried out jointly by the Ministry of National Heritage, Archaeological Department and the Sri Lanka Navy. 75 million rupees was spent on the renovation with Netherlands’ aid. The museum displays maritime history and marine biodiversity in a special cubicle. From 1602 to 1796 during the Dutch rule the building was used as the official residence of the Naval Commissioner. From 1795 to 1948 it was used as the official residence of the Urban Commissioner. Later it was used as the South Eastern University. The President planted an Ebony tree to mark his visit. Minister Dr. Jagath Balasuriya, Deputy Minister Susantha Punchinilame, Governor of the Eastern Province Mohan Wijewickrama and Chief Minister Najeeb A. Majeed were amongst those who participated in the occasion.
