Sri Lanka's iconic Lotus Tower was lit in red in capital Colombo on April 11, 2020.Photo:Xinhua

Sri Lanka's iconic Lotus Tower in capital Colombo was lit in red on Saturday evening to honor the medical workers, the armed forces, police and all other officials who are in the front line to fight the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

The red lights were switched on at 6:45 p.m. local time, illuminating a bright light in the dark sky and it was shown live on the national television as well as on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's social media accounts.

"The Lotus Tower will be lit at 6:45 p.m. today to honor and pay tribute to the healthcare, armed forces, police and all supporting personnel, who are leading the battle against the COVID-19," President Rajapaksa said on his official twitter account earlier Saturday.

Two policemen take photos in front of the Lotus Tower in capital Colombo on April 11, 2020.Photo:Xinhua

"Their selfless service is the lifeblood of our country today and it's our duty to take care of them. This tribute is for you," the president added.

After witnessing the tower being lit up, government spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella on his official twitter account paid gratitude to all service men and women who are in the forefront of the COVID-19 battle and saluted them for their dedication and courage.

Sri Lanka's iconic Lotus Tower, which stands 356 meters high, will bring great benefits to Sri Lanka's telecommunication and broadcasting industry.

Sri Lanka has so far had 198 confirmed COVID-19 cases, with 7 deaths reported.

A total of 54 people have recovered and been discharged from hospital, while 137 people remain under medical observation in the designated hospitals across the country.

The country remains under a nationwide curfew which was imposed on March 20.

Sri Lanka's iconic Lotus Tower was lit in red in capital Colombo on April 11, 2020. Photo:Xinhua

Sri Lanka's iconic Lotus Tower was lit in red in capital Colombo on April 11, 2020. Photo:Xinhua