US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has called on Sri Lanka to respect human rights in a statement marking Tamil and Singhalese New Year.

“On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to Sri Lankans around the world as you celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year.

“This celebration brings people together to renew bonds of friendship and family.

“It also gives Sri Lankans of all backgrounds, living inside and outside the country, an opportunity to help build a prosperous, democratic nation defined by tolerance and respect for human rights.

“As a partner and friend of Sri Lanka for more than 150 years, the United States looks forward to supporting your efforts to foster national reconciliation and development, and to build even stronger ties between our people.

“Congratulations and best wishes for a safe and happy holiday and a prosperous New Year.”

Meanwhile Sri Lanka's President Mahinda Rajapaksa used his New Years message to express his 'sincere gratitude' to the members of Sri Lanka's armed forces and police and called upon everyone to pay 'due importance to the observance of new year traditions'.

"The observance of the many important traditions associated with the New Year strengthens great unity and understanding between family and village. Such unity is a great encouragement to solidarity for national prosperity. As the country moves towards prosperity, the observances of these traditions by all at the auspicious hours would bring great blessings.

"I, therefore, call upon you all to pay due importance to the observance of the New Year traditions.

"I express my sincere gratitude to the members of the Armed Forces, the Police and Civil Defence Corps and all others who carry out their official duties during this period of festivity.

"I wish you all a happy New Year."