(-Colombo, March 21, 2025-) President tells Parliament President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that the National People’s Power (NPP) government has stabilized the economy over the past four months that has instilled confidence in the country’s ability to move toward a prosperous future. He further noted that the government has achieved numerous economic victories, increased state […]
(-Colombo, March 21, 2025-)
President tells Parliament
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that the National People’s Power (NPP) government has stabilized the economy over the past four months that has instilled confidence in the country’s ability to move toward a prosperous future.
He further noted that the government has achieved numerous economic victories, increased state revenue, and resumed several stalled development projects initiated with foreign assistance, thereby signaling economic stability to the nation.
President Disanayake made these remarks yesterday (21) during the parliamentary debate on the third reading of the budget.
He asserted that those who attempt to disrupt this national progress for political gain will ultimately be rendered irrelevant in politics. He emphasized that the only path available to all politicians in the country today is to align with and support the government’s development agenda.
Additionally, the President stated that the era of media-driven politics has come to an end, arguing that if such an approach were still effective, the current government would not have come to power. He described the present administration as a political movement that remains engaged in continuous dialogue with the people.
Reflecting on past opportunities to rebuild the nation that was squandered, President Disanayake stressed that neither he nor his government would let the current opportunity slip away. He reiterated that their mission will only conclude once the country has been fully rescued from its current challenges.
President Anura Kumara Disanayake stated that neither he nor any minister in the government harbours personal ambitions; instead, their only aspiration is the well-being of the country and its people. He firmly assured that this vision will be realized and invited all members of the opposition to be active participants in the nation’s journey toward success, rather than being remembered in history as obstacles to progress.
Further elaborating on his views, the President remarked:
“This is one of the longest budget debates held in Parliament in recent times. Previously, adequate time was not allocated for such discussions, but we ensured a full-length debate. During this discussion, various points were raised; some out of pain, others out of anger. Some of these concerns were valid. We are not surprised by expressions of pain or anger. When lands in Hanthana are lost, pain is inevitable. It is saddening. The documents related to this matter are available at the Presidential Secretariat. We understand the frustration and outrage. However, we must also be prepared to embrace what is beneficial and reject what is not.
We are a political movement that firmly believes the country’s economic system must undergo a decisive transformation and we are actively working toward that goal. Moreover, we clearly understand how to implement this transformation. If the economy were in a strong and crisis-free state, this shift could happen swiftly. However, given the dire economic situation, the transformation must be carefully planned and executed over time.
Therefore, we fully understand the concerns being raised. For a long time, this country has followed economic policies that have failed to serve its people. Now, we are taking decisive steps to establish an economy that benefits both the country and its citizens. To achieve this transformation, our first priority is to stabilize the economy. An economy burdened by multiple crises cannot withstand sudden, large-scale changes. A vehicle with broken wheels cannot make sharp turns; first, the wheels must be fixed. That is why we are systematically working to steer the economy forward with careful planning.
We inherited a state that was officially declared bankrupt, not just officially, but in reality as well. There was a massive gap between the country’s revenue and expenditure. While the expected total revenue was LKR 4,999 billion, debt interest payments alone required LKR 2,950 billion. Additionally, LKR 1,352 billion was needed for public sector salaries and LKR 442 billion for pension payments. This meant that from the total revenue of LKR 4,990 billion, LKR 4,744 billion was immediately spent on interest, salaries and pensions, leaving only LKR 246 billion. An economy in such a dire state cannot be turned around overnight.
Furthermore, the country is burdened with a significant amount of debt and a collection of state institutions that incur massive annual losses. Last year, the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation recorded a loss of LKR 256 million, with outstanding debt amounting to LKR 1,834 million. The Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation reported a loss of LKR 152 million, while its debt stood at LKR 1,603 million. The Independent Television Network (ITN) had a debt of LKR 1,476 million. Lanka Sugar Company carried a debt of LKR 11,165 million, the State Plantation Corporation owed LKR 3,216 million, Milco (Pvt) Ltd had a debt of LKR 15,090 million and SriLankan Airlines was burdened with nearly LKR 340 billion in debt.
With such conditions, the revenue generated by the state was barely sufficient to cover the fundamental expenditures I previously outlined. The country we inherited was one with highly concentrated and insufficient revenue. Additionally, the segment of society contributing to the national economy was extremely small. For instance, 90% of Sri Lanka’s export income is generated by just 10% of exporters. Similarly, approximately 69% of the revenue collected by the Department of Inland Revenue comes from around 600 tax files.
Moreover, we had become a bankrupt state in the eyes of the world; a country unable to secure loans and one where trust in the banking system had collapsed. Therefore, our first and foremost responsibility was to stabilize the economy. Without economic stability, we were not prepared to undertake any major transformations. History has shown that every economic shift attempted without first achieving stability has resulted in negative consequences.
When we took over the government, Sri Lanka was already engaged in a four-year Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). We were faced with two choices: either to continue with this program or to abandon it. While many expected us to walk away from the IMF agreement, we did not fall into that trap. We knew that given the fragile state of the economy, even a small misstep on our part could lead to severe economic repercussions. As a government, our primary responsibility in restoring a collapsed economy was to ensure that we did not make even minor mistakes.
Accordingly, our first priority was to establish economic stability in the country. Today, no one can claim that Sri Lanka lacks economic stability. I must emphasize that we worked tirelessly to achieve this stability. As a key milestone in this effort, on December 21 of last year, our country was officially declared free from bankruptcy. Until that point, we were a state that had defaulted on its debt. However, we have now transitioned to a country that, while not currently repaying its debt, has reached an agreement on its repayment. We have secured an extension until 2028 to begin settling our outstanding debts.
As a bankrupt nation, our country suffered immense damage. Consequently, many development projects that were dependent on foreign aid came to a halt. However, after Sri Lanka was freed from bankruptcy, the respective countries have decided to resume these projects. This is a clear indication of the country’s growing stability.
Additionally, with the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Sri Lanka on April 5, work on the Sampur power plant is set to commence. Similarly, within the next two months, a new solar power plant in Siyambalanduwa and a 50-megawatt wind power plant in Mannar will begin operations.
We have successfully steered the country from economic instability to stability. We have restored confidence among businesses, investors and international financial institutions regarding Sri Lanka’s financial standing. Today, the exchange rate has remained stable at approximately LKR 300 per USD for the past three years; an achievement that had not been seen in recent history.
Furthermore, Sri Lanka has transitioned from being a high-risk debtor nation to one with reduced debt risk. Trust in the banking system has been reinstated and interest rates have been brought down to single digits. By mid-year, we anticipate achieving positive inflation growth. In the past two months, the highest recorded remittance inflow from migrant workers in recent history was received, signifying growing confidence in the country’s economic stability.
Additionally, Sri Lanka has seen a significant influx of tourists. As of March 17, over 610,000 tourists had arrived in the country. We can confidently predict that this year will see the highest number of tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka’s history.
In Parliament, we have often observed discrepancies between estimated and actual revenue figures. However, in 2024, the Department of Customs met the estimated revenue target. We initially projected an income of LKR 356 billion from the Inland Revenue Department, but by March 17, the actual revenue had reached LKR 438 billion. Similarly, in January, the Customs Department’s revenue surpassed its estimated target.
Furthermore, we are striving to generate revenue that exceeds our projected income for this year. Achieving economic stability is crucial for the country, as substantial transformations in the economy cannot be realized without first securing such stability. In the past, private entrepreneurs lacked confidence in the nation’s economic landscape. Progress cannot be made without fostering trust among key economic stakeholders. The economy cannot be managed based on mere intuition; rather, we rely on data, analytical assessments, and conclusions drawn from those analyses to steer the country’s economic direction.
The decision to permit motor vehicle imports is a highly sensitive one, and we are continuously reviewing it to ensure we achieve our intended objectives.
You are free to engage in political discourse as much as you wish, but we earnestly request that false information, which could destabilize the economy, not be disseminated. Individuals identified as economic experts must ensure their statements are responsible, as reckless claims can create significant instability in the financial markets. Stabilizing the economy is not solely the government’s responsibility; it is a collective duty that we must all fulfill as citizens and public representatives.
We may engage in political debates, but I must once again appeal that false and damaging economic information not be spread. In a well-functioning economy, such statements may not have severe consequences. However, at a time when we are carefully navigating an economic recovery, it is critical not to create unnecessary doubt. If you have concerns, let us discuss them. Do not irresponsibly propagate unverified claims. This is a moment when we must all act responsibly to stabilize the economy.
At the same time, we cannot allow the lives of our citizens to stagnate until economic stability is fully achieved. We are systematically implementing measures to boost local production while also providing necessary relief to safeguard the livelihoods of the general public. Accordingly, we have increased the fertilizer subsidy from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 25,000 and, in a recent Cabinet decision, allocated an additional Rs. 15,000 for excess crops cultivated in paddy fields. Furthermore, we have enhanced compensation for harvest losses. We will never abandon our duty to support the people.
We have allocated a Rs. 6,000 allowance for 1.6 million schoolchildren to purchase books and supplies. These programs are being implemented despite the economic challenges we face. Additionally, we have increased the allowance for kidney patients from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000 and raised the elderly allowance from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000. Moreover, we have increased the pensions of retirees by Rs. 3,000. We remain committed to the welfare of our citizens.
We have taken steps to increase the Mahapola scholarship from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,500 and the student allowance from Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 6,500. Additionally, we have decided to provide an allowance of Rs. 5,000 for orphaned children and deposit Rs. 3,000 into their fixed savings accounts. Furthermore, when an orphan, particularly a young girl, residing in a state institution reaches the age of marriage, we have allocated Rs. 1 million for the construction of a house. We take full responsibility for the welfare of these children. We have also increased the daily meal allowance for preschool children from Rs. 60 to Rs. 100.
Regarding salary increases for public sector employees, we focused on two key issues. There was a prevailing trend of skilled government officials leaving the country, and simultaneously, we struggled to attract individuals with specialized expertise and competence to the public sector. Despite financial challenges, we recognized the necessity of implementing a meaningful salary increase for public sector employees.
This was an unanticipated increase in basic salaries. We implemented this increase based on a scientific approach, alongside enhancements to other allowances. We also made adjustments to previously unaddressed salary scales to ensure tangible improvements. However, if future adjustments to this framework are deemed necessary while safeguarding core principles and integrity, we are prepared to take action. Our ultimate goal is to establish an efficient and well-functioning public sector.
What, then, is the opposition doing today? Even if I were to assume the presidency today, I would still be entitled to a parliamentary pension—a fact I was previously unaware of. However, upon learning of it, I immediately submitted a request to Parliament to forgo this pension. A Member of Parliament who becomes President receives both the parliamentary pension and the presidential salary. In the past, such benefits were distributed at will. Similarly, when an MP is appointed as a Minister, they receive both a ministerial salary and a parliamentary salary. However, we have decided that our ministers and deputy ministers will only receive the MP salary.
If we are to transform this country, the political system must change. Accordingly, we are expediting the introduction of a bill to abolish parliamentary pensions. We are also swiftly amending the Presidents Entitlements Act and presenting it to Parliament. In the near future, we will introduce several key bills that all members of Parliament should unite to support. Furthermore, MPs will no longer receive duty-free vehicle permits, and we uphold the policy that a Member of Parliament should receive an official vehicle only during their tenure.
We have also reduced the number of Cabinet Ministers to 21, with Deputy Ministers appointed accordingly. Ministers are no longer provided with official residences. Establishing political stability in the country is essential, and when ministers and politicians lead by example through sacrifices, public servants must also be prepared to follow suit. Instead of engaging in superficial debates over dignity and pride, we must focus on substantive progress.
We have paid special attention to the issue of unemployed graduates and are ensuring that job placements follow a proper policy framework. We have identified 15,300 vacancies in the public sector, and the relevant committee has approved the filling of these positions. As a result, we plan to recruit 30,000 individuals into government positions, ensuring that the process is carried out transparently and systematically. However, we must avoid unnecessary over-recruitment, and I urge all members of Parliament to exercise restraint in this regard. We recognize the importance of public service, but the financial burden of maintaining the public sector is extremely high. Therefore, we are proceeding with a carefully planned approach.
If our government were merely to continue the existing system, governance would be far easier. However, the people elected us to bring about meaningful reforms for the nation’s progress.
In this endeavor, the business community plays a critical role. Everyone must pay taxes fairly, and we are committed to enforcing the law against tax evasion. At the same time, we assure that every rupee collected in taxes will be safeguarded and utilized responsibly. We also plan to introduce special incentives for taxpayers.
We must rebuild public trust in the nation’s tax system. We are fostering a new political culture to achieve this. When people are confident that their tax contributions are managed transparently and efficiently, they will willingly comply. In the past, taxpayers hesitated because they saw their contributions being misused. We are committed to changing this perception and restoring trust in the system.
Moreover, professionals must contribute to national development. The government must ensure that essential services are provided without imposing additional costs on the people. Corruption weakens the public sector and hinders economic growth. Corruption is an economic crime, and we will take strict measures to address it. The state must be reformed. We must eliminate the deeply rooted culture of corruption within the government apparatus.
We are also committed to creating a more investment-friendly environment within the country, introducing an Investment Protection Act. Additionally, we are in the process of amending the Strategic Development Projects Act to ensure that tax concessions are granted based on national requirements rather than personal affiliations. This legislation will be presented to Parliament promptly.
Furthermore, we anticipate significant reforms in the education sector and have initiated a project to streamline the school system. By expanding vocational training and educational pathways, we aim to transform the education system in a way that secures a brighter future for the country’s children.
We are implementing necessary relief measures to support small and medium-scale entrepreneurs while also planning a substantial transformation in the agricultural sector. A major initiative is underway to develop a port-centric maritime economy, and with the assistance of the Asian Development Bank, we are expediting the construction of the Kerawalapitiya Container Terminal.
Through these measures, we strive to stabilize the national economy and guide the country towards its future goals. It is essential that we all come together and strengthen this journey as we move forward.
(-Colombo, March 17, 2025-) The groups representing the National People’s Power contesting the upcoming local government election began signing nomination papers at the party headquarters in Pelawatta, Battaramulla this morning (17). The event was attended by JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva, Secretary of the National People’s Power, Member of Parliament Nihal Abeysinghe, Colombo Municipal Council […]
(-Colombo, March 17, 2025-)
The groups representing the National People’s Power contesting the upcoming local government election began signing nomination papers at the party headquarters in Pelawatta, Battaramulla this morning (17). The event was attended by JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva, Secretary of the National People’s Power, Member of Parliament Nihal Abeysinghe, Colombo Municipal Council Group Leader and Kaduwela Municipal Council Group Leader.
Speaking to the media after signing the nomination papers…
Instead of politics where MPs contract, extort and take revenge, we will create a political culture where MPs, and mayors work together with the people – JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva
I am sure that the people will rally around the compass for a decisive change in this year’s local government election – Secretary of the National People’s Power, Member of Parliament Nihal Abeysinghe
We showed in the parliamentary election that we have a very strong team. We will show it in the local government election as well. We will win local government institutions in the country, including the Colombo Municipal Council – Colombo Municipal Council Group Leader, Vrai Kelly Balthasar
The Kaduwela Municipal Council has not done justice to the tax money paid by the people so far. We are ready to accept this as a responsibility and not as a privilege and develop the city of Kaduwela. – Kaduwela Municipal Council Group Leader Ranjan Jayalal
(-Colombo, March 15, 2025-) A special IFTAR ceremony was held this evening (14th) at Temple Trees in commemoration of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The event was graced by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The event was attended by a significant number of Islamic religious leaders and devotees, and it was held with a strong […]
(-Colombo, March 15, 2025-)
A special IFTAR ceremony was held this evening (14th) at Temple Trees in commemoration of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The event was graced by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
The event was attended by a significant number of Islamic religious leaders and devotees, and it was held with a strong emphasis on Islamic religious traditions.
The Deputy Speaker, Rizvie Salih, delivered the welcome speech, while the Deputy Minister of National Integration, Muneer Mulaffer, also addressed the gathering.
Sheikh Abdullah Shaheed Mawlavi delivered a special sermon on the significance of the month of Ramadan.
Following a special prayer session, the breaking of the fast commenced at 6:23 PM, after which a special banquet was held.
President Disanayake also engaged in a friendly conversation with the attendees of the IFTAR ceremony.
Among the distinguished guests were Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Governor of the Western Province, Mr. Hanif Yusuf, as well as Government and Opposition Parliamentarians, State Officials, High Commissioners, Ambassadors, and Media Personnel.
(-Colombo, March 08, 2025-) International Women’s Day is a direct victory for the movement advocating women’s rights. The concept of Women’s Day originated from a march in New York City, where approximately 15,000 women demanded shorter working hours, better wages and voting rights. Later, March 8 was recognized as International Women’s Day, inspired by the […]
(-Colombo, March 08, 2025-)
International Women’s Day is a direct victory for the movement advocating women’s rights. The concept of Women’s Day originated from a march in New York City, where approximately 15,000 women demanded shorter working hours, better wages and voting rights.
Later, March 8 was recognized as International Women’s Day, inspired by the Russian women who went on strike demanding “Bread and Peace” during the February Revolution of 1917, which laid the foundation for significant political change.
The contribution of Sri Lankan women to the formation of the National People’s Power (NPP) government has been immense. As a government, we express our gratitude for this invaluable support and take pride in the initial steps we have taken within a short period to secure victories for Sri Lankan women.
For decades, the topics of women’s political representation, participation and leadership remained subjects of discussion rather than action. However, the election of 22 women as Members of Parliament in the last general election marked a turning point in the country’s political landscape.
Furthermore, in pursuit of gender equality and social justice, we have implemented our economic policy; a production-based economic approach, ensuring the active and effective participation of women, who make up 51.7% of the population.
With a vision of a just society, a free nation and empowered women, we are committed to safeguarding women’s rights in all aspects of life, including the home, public transport, workplaces, communities and politics. This includes preventing all forms of violence against women, ensuring gender-discrimination and protecting women’s rights. We have prioritized incorporating these principles into national policies.
In alignment with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” we celebrate Women’s Day under the theme, “Strong She Will Be a Pathway to Build a Sustainable Future!” This theme powerfully reflects the commitment to equal rights for all women and girls, emphasizing a practical and meaningful approach to achieving gender equality.
As we strive for economic prosperity and a secure future for the daughters of our society, we look forward to the unwavering support of all women in leading our country toward a new era of progress. On this International Women’s Day, I extend my warmest wishes to all.
Anura Kumara Disanayake
President
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
08th March, 2025
(-Colombo, February 28, 2025-) • There Will Be No Opportunity for Nationalism or Extremism to Resurface in the Country • The Simultaneous Operation of Several Criminal Gangs Raises Suspicion of a Conspiracy • The Current Government Has Ended the Era of Inhumanity and Paved the Way for Discipline – President States in Parliament President Anura […]
(-Colombo, February 28, 2025-)
• There Will Be No Opportunity for Nationalism or Extremism to Resurface in the Country
• The Simultaneous Operation of Several Criminal Gangs Raises Suspicion of a Conspiracy
• The Current Government Has Ended the Era of Inhumanity and Paved the Way for Discipline
– President States in Parliament
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake affirmed that the National People’s Power (NPP) government is committed to eradicate the criminal underworld that operates within the legal state.
The President emphasized that nationalism and extremism have historically posed significant threats to national security and assured that the current administration will not allow either to resurface in Sri Lanka.
President Dissanayake also stated that the government is prepared to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and introduce a new legal framework to prevent terrorism.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake made these remarks today (28) in Parliament while delivering the response speech as the Minister of Defence during the Committee Stage Debate of the 2025 Budget, addressing the expenditure heads of the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Public Security, and the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.
He firmly stated that his government would never leave room for the opposition to realize their dream of toppling the government, whether by creating an illusion of economic collapse, fabricating a security crisis, or inciting public unrest.
Furthermore, he asserted that the current administration has ended the era of inhumanity and is paving the way for a more disciplined and principled governance. The President challenged the opposition to surpass the standards set by the present government, warning that failure to do so would render them political fossils stuck in out-dated politics.
He also made it clear that no criminal gangs operating within the hidden criminal underworld would receive any protection or endorsement from members of the current government.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake affirmed that the Sri Lanka Army and Police would be restructured into fully professional institutions. He emphasized that all appointments and transfers within the security forces have been conducted without favouritism or political influence.
He further stated that the former Chief of Defence Staff had been granted seven service extensions. However, as key positions cannot be assigned based on personal relationships or favouritism, new appointments have been made to ensure a fresh and merit-based approach.
The President underscored that the current government is committed to building a military that is loyal to the state rather than individuals and to enhancing its professionalism.
He also stated that the government is taking all possible measures to ensure justice and fairness for crimes that have been buried by the passage of time.
Highlighting the importance of trust in the structure of the security sector, the President noted that the current government is working to restore discipline and integrity to the state, which has deteriorated to its deepest level.
The President declared that the opposition’s aspiration to attain power through the creation of an economic crisis has now come to a conclusion. He further expressed scepticism regarding the opposition’s current efforts to seize power by inciting a national security crisis.
The President revealed that an investigation into the five recent crimes that occurred this month indicated they were committed by five criminal gangs. He further stated that, during the investigation, the direction of the inquiry is being directed towards identifying the perpetrators. There is suspicion that multiple gangs operated simultaneously, raising concerns of a possible conspiracy. The President mentioned that once these conspiracies are identified, the government will take steps to suppress them. He emphasized that the era of transferring governmental power through conspiracies has come to an end, and that it is possible to form a government based on civility and proper conduct.
The President further stated that state institutions and political authorities are working towards building a society free from criminal gangs.
The President stated that the current budget includes proposals to increase allowances for foreign training for the defence sectors. Provisions have been allocated for the purchase of necessary aircrafts for the Air Force and, the Navy, and plans are in place to allocate Rs. 1,000 million for providing facilities to the Sri Lanka Police. Additionally, funds have been set aside for new recruitments in the tri-forces and the police. The budget includes provisions for the recruitment of 10,000 personnel each for the Air Force and the Police.
(-Colombo, February 26, 2025-) Maha Shiva Rathri is a sacred and joyous occasion celebrated by Hindu devotees across the world in reverence of Lord Shiva. This divine night marks the celestial union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, as well as the powerful Tandava, Shiva’s cosmic dance of creation and destruction. It symbolises the triumph […]
(-Colombo, February 26, 2025-)
Maha Shiva Rathri is a sacred and joyous occasion celebrated by Hindu devotees across the world in reverence of Lord Shiva. This divine night marks the celestial union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, as well as the powerful Tandava, Shiva’s cosmic dance of creation and destruction. It symbolises the triumph of wisdom over ignorance, dispelling the darkness of illusion and lighting the path to enlightenment.
On this auspicious night, Hindu devotees observe fasting and engage in spiritual practices, praying for the darkness of ignorance to be replaced by the radiance of wisdom. It is also a time to seek divine blessings for prosperity, peace and fulfilment in life.
The union of Shiva and Parvati is a profound representation of knowledge and power coming together. It reminds us that breaking free from the illusions of division allows us to embrace the truth with open eyes. Today, as we stand at the dawn of a new era, this message is more relevant than ever. Let us tear down the barriers that have kept us apart for generations and unite as one, casting aside discord and embracing togetherness. This is a moment to nurture interfaith harmony, celebrate our diversity and move forward with love and mutual respect, dedicating ourselves to the progress of our beloved motherland.
As we journey towards a brighter future, it is our collective responsibility to build a nation grounded in unity and strength. We are stepping into a time of transformation, embracing political, economic and social renewal, shaping a future that holds promise and hope for all.
On this sacred night, as the glowing lamps of Maha Shiva Rathri illuminate our surroundings, let them also illuminate our hearts, guiding us with unwavering faith along the path we have chosen. Let us walk forward together, hand in hand, in the spirit of peace, unity and shared prosperity.
May this Maha Shiva Rathri bring fulfilment, happiness and boundless blessings to all Hindu devotees in Sri Lanka and around the world.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake
President
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
26th February, 2025
