The end of the armed conflict will be 'celebrated' by the government in a 'cultural presentation of victory' on May 18, according to the website of the defence ministry.

The event, titled 'A Reminiscence of Reconciliation', will include the army, navy, air force, civil security department and the police.

Held on the day Tamils across the world to mourn the tens of thousands of those who died, the 'celebration' will occur under the patronage of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and President Maithripala Sirisena.

A government official said the president and the prime minister decided to conduct the event in this way this year in order to build "lasting peace through reconciliation, friendship and brotherhood among the people", defence.lk reported.

The official further said that reconciliation is essential for maintaining the lasting peace achieved after much sacrifices and that cultural programme is being held as a part of the government's effort in promoting reconciliation among the people.

"It is a farsighted measure taken by the government to reflect the Sri Lankan identity through reconciliation among the people of all races and religions," the announcement on the defence ministry website said.

Meanwhile Tamils have been warned against commemorating fallen fighters and activists involved in holding commemorative events have been harassed by security forces.

Mullivaikkal Remembrance Week organisers followed by Sri Lankan military intelligence (14 May 2016)

Sri Lankan minister warns against 'LTTE remembrance' (12 May 2016)

Mullivaikkal Remembrance Week launched in Jaffna (13 May 2016)

Tamil genocide remembered at Navali church (14 May 2016)