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Message by H.E.Mr.Keizo Obuchi, Prime Minister of Japan
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The Honorable D.M.S.B Dissanayake. Minister of Samurdhi.Youth
Affairs and Sports is among guests at this reception. I understand
that the Minister flew all the way from Sri Lanka to Japan to
encourage Mr.Dilantha Malagamuwa in his bid to win the Nippon
Formula Championship. I think the Minister's presence indicates
the great expectations of the Sri Lanka government and people
for the country's leading racer. |
As I have been promoting friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka
as the President of Japan - Sri Lanka Parliamentarians' League.
I would like to give my heartfelt congratulations to this distinguished
racing driver.
An up-and-coming racer from Sri Lanka. Mr.Malagamuwa arrived here
alone in 1985. He worked his way up to become a qualified driver
in Japan's most prominent speed car race. Formula Nippon. I assume
that he has faced scores of difficulties while living and working
in this foreign land. Mr. Malagamuwa successfully overcame one hurdle
after another to climb to the level of the top-notch speed racers
in Japan. I am impressed with his strength and power, both mental
and physical, and I would like to praise what he has achieved so
far in Japan.
Outside of Japan there are only a few racers representing Asia
in the world. I was told Mr.Malagamuwa is among the limited number
of top Asian racers able to compete in semi-F1 races. His distinguished
achievement are unprecedented not only Sri Lanka but in the rest
of Asia. It is not an exaggeration to say that Mr.Malagamuwa is
a pioneer forging the path for the younger racers of Asia.
I was told that Mr.Malagamuwa's next target is to compete in the
most competitive Formula One races by 2001. I hope that he realize
his goal soon, responding to the expectations of his supporters
both at home and in Japan. I am sure that the Formula Nippon race
will be a vital step toward his goal. Along with his other supporters
I look forward to witnessing Mr.Malagamuwa's performance in the
upcoming race.
To conclude. I would like to offer my very best wishes to Hon.
Minister Dissanayake. H.E.Ambassador Wijayasiri. And all other attendants
here tonight. 1998/09/16
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