Her Excellency Ms. Dr. Eliska Zigova, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Sri Lanka, met with the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, at Temple Trees on 25th of March. The meeting underscored the longstanding friendship between the two nations and explored avenues to enhance bilateral cooperation.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya welcomed Ambassador Zigova and acknowledged the Czech Republic’s continued support for Sri Lanka. In response, Ambassador Zigova commended the new government’s commitment to democratic governance and its successful execution of two peaceful elections, reflecting political stability and public trust.

Discussions during the meeting focused on strengthening diplomatic and economic ties. Ambassador Zigova emphasized the importance of existing agreements and reiterated her government’s willingness to expand collaboration in key areas. Particular attention was given to discuss the posibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on science and education, aimed at building academic partnerships, research collaboration, and knowledge exchange between institutions in both countries.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya highlighted the "Clean Sri Lanka Programme," a nationwide initiative dedicated to environmental conservation and urban sustainability. Additionally, the two dignitaries discussed prospects for enhancing tourism, with the Prime Minister inviting more Czech visitors to experience Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and growing eco-tourism sector.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Embassy of the Czech Republic to Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan delegation included Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister, and Mr. P.R.S.S. Gunaratna, Director General of the Europe & North America Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Prime Minister’s Media Division

For countries like Sri Lanka, collaborative efforts like THRIVE are essential in ensuring gender parity and eliminating gender-based violence

The Prime Minister made these remarks while attending the official launch of ’THRIVE- Together for Her: Resilience-building, Inclusivity, and Voices for Equality in Sri Lanka’, held on 25 March at the Australian High Commission in Colombo which was jointly hosted by the High Commissioner of Australia, UN Women, and Chrysalis.

THRIVE is a five-year initiative implemented by UN Women and Chrysalis, and funded by the Government of Australia. This project contributes to achieving Outcome 6 – “Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment” – of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Sri Lanka 2023-2027, which has been co-signed by the Government of Sri Lanka and the United Nations, guiding the work of the UN system in Sri Lanka.

The project aims to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment in Sri Lanka by strengthening the economic and social resilience of marginalized women to navigate and recover from crises, insecurity, and the impacts of climate change aiming women with disabilities, women-headed households, and women in the plantation sector across six districts – Mannar, Kilinochchi, Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Moneragala, and Colombo.

Delivering the keynote address, Prime Minister Amarasuriya emphasized the need for structural and attitudinal change for ensuring gender parity and eliminate violence against women.

“Sri Lanka ranks high on the Human Development Index, with a literacy rate exceeding 92%, and over 60% of university students being women. However, only 35% of women participate in the paid workforce. It is necessary to find ways and means to ensure that women have opportunities to contribute towards the economy through employment opportunities and equal pay with given a dully acknowledge and recognize unpaid work and unpaid care work, which are often disproportionately carried out by women.

The Parliament of Sri Lanka adopted the Women Empowerment Act in 2024 which includes the establishment of an independent National Commission on Women to oversee women’s rights, and to create of a National Fund for Women. The administrative process for appointing the Commissioners is currently underway.

Further, as a government, we have implemented several benefits for women and young women under the national budget. As Minister of Education, I can confidently say that we have allocated funds to ensure children from marginalized communities have access to education including providing free uniforms, shoes, sanitary facilities, meals, books, and a stipend, ensuring that no child drops out due to economic barriers.

However, it is statistically proven that the 90% of women faced sexual harassment in public transport at least once in their lifetime and the Global Gender Gap Index of Sri Lanka lists at 122 among 146 countries that marks gender disparity is not just a women’s issue. It is a societal challenge that transcends gender, race, religion, and age.

Moreover, new threats are emerging. While digital tools offer great potential for development and technological advancement, they are also being misused to silence women, amplify biases, and fuel harassment. It is essential to create an inclusive digital space where everyone—regardless of gender, race, religion, or age—has equal opportunities to thrive in the digital age. The government remains committed to closing the gender digital divide and ensuring that women, especially young women, can participate independently in the digital economy.

Gender inequality is not a women issue, it is a societal issue that demands policy change, education, attitudinal and behavioural transformation. For countries like Sri Lanka, collaborative efforts like THRIVE are essential in creating a future where all women have equal opportunities to thrive.”

The event was attended by the Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Paul Stephens; UN Women Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Ms. Maria Holtsberg; United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Marc-Andr Franche; and other esteemed dignitaries.

Prime Minister’s Media Division

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized the urgent need for prompt and decisive measures to address the challenges, barriers, and discriminatory practices encountered by women both domestically and globally.

The Prime Minister made these remarks today (22) while addressing the International Women’s Day celebration organized by the United Nations Association in Sri Lanka, held at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute in Colombo.

During the event, awards were presented in appreciation of women who have achieved significant accomplishments and earned societal recognition in different fields.

Delivering the key note speech, the Prime Minister further stated:

“Equally all women including young female must be protected irrespective of their socio-economic status, educational background, religion, ethnicity, disability, or any other personal identity. Their fundamental rights must be safeguarded. Sri Lanka has a proud history of strong women who have contributed significantly to the development of the nation and I am well aware that many such remarkable individuals are present in this esteemed audience today.

Women are driving transformational change by assuming leadership roles in politics, business, and social initiatives. The government has implemented different policies and programme to empower women. The 2024 Women’s Empowerment Act has laid the foundation for new legal protections and the establishment of an Independent National Women’s Commission leading a significant step toward institutionalizing gender equality.

The government has prioritized increasing the participation of women in workforce by introducing entrepreneurship and digital financial literacy programme for rural women, along with establishing nine ministries for uplifting the economic level of women and the entire nation. Several initiatives were also incorporated into the recently approved budget. Nevertheless, female representation in leadership, decision-making, and economic participation remains disproportionately low. While efforts have been made to create opportunities in education, economic development, and healthcare for women and young female, it is imperative to acknowledge that there are much more remains to be done.

Although the women’s representation in Parliament has been doubled, it remains at approximately 10%. A greater representation of women is essential in political spheres, decision-making, and leadership roles. Currently, women’s participation in the formal workforce with pay is at 32%, which is significantly lower compared to the male counterparts.

Some individuals assert that achieving work-life balance is an unattainable goal for women, while simultaneously expecting them to manage all responsibilities. However, it is important to acknowledge that it is not possible to do everything. What is truly required is the opportunity for women to pursue what they aspire to do, within families and a society that values and respect women. It is imperative to foster an environment that offers greater support for women. In this regard, recognizing and appreciating the caregiving responsibilities undertaken by unpaid women is essential.

Gender-based violence and discrimination remain prevalent in society. Addressing these issues requires urgent legal and social reforms. The journey toward gender equality cannot be undertaken in isolation. As a nation committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5 on Gender Equality, it is essential to maintain strong global partnerships and take sincere steps toward the empowerment of women. In a rapidly evolving world, empowering women must go hand in hand with ensuring their active contribution to national development and the United Nations in Sri Lanka continues to serve as a valuable advisor and advocate for women’s rights.”

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya reiterated the importance of implementing effective measures to identify and address the challenges, barriers, and discriminatory practices faced by women both locally and internationally.

The event was attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath; Secretary-General to United Nations Association of Sri Lanka Mr. M.M. Rushaudeen; Assistant Secretary-General to United Nations Association of Sri Lanka Ms. Panchali Ratnayake; and several other distinguished guests.

Prime Minister’s Media Division

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that steps will be taken to promptly complete delayed developmental water supply projects and community water supply projects.

The Prime Minister made these remarks today (21), while participating in the World Water Day event organized by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board.

During the event, a special software application designed to facilitate water supply services was officially launched under the patronage of the Prime Minister. Further, awards and certificates were presented to students who won the island-wide school drama and essay competition which was organized in line with World Water Day and commendations and medals were awarded to professional staff members of the Water Supply and Drainage Board.

Further addressing the event, the Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated:

“An amount of Rs. 41,234 million has been allocated in the 2025 Maiden Budget for conducting investigations related to water supply services.

Recognizing the national importance of ensuring safe and reliable water supply, funds have been allocated to expedite the completion of ongoing large-scale and community water supply projects including the Integrated Water Supply Project in Gampaha–Attanagalla and Minuwangoda, Integrated Water Supply Project in Polgahawela–Alawwa and Pothuhera, Integrated Water Supply Project in Mathugama and Agalawatta, and the Thambuttegama Water Supply Project which has been delayed due to the suspension of loan facilities by lenders amidst the prevailing economic crisis. Therefore, I firmly believe that the Water Supply and Drainage Board as a reputed and leading institution in the country will act with greater strength and determination to achieve the vision of the government ’A Prosperous Country and a Beautiful Life’ in reality.”

The event was attended by Minister of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing Anura Karunathilaka; Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage; Deputy Minister of Housing T. B. Sarath; and the Chairman of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Eng. Deepti U. Sumanasekara, along with other distinguished invitees.

Prime Minister’s Media Division

The Secretary to the Prime Minister, Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, participated in the World Bank Group’s Global Digital Summit 2025, held from March 17 to 20 at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C. Under the theme "Digital Pathways for All," the summit brought together global authorities, development partners, private sector leaders, and key stakeholders to explore innovative digital solutions and their role in advancing economic and social development.

The summit provided valuable insights for Sri Lanka’s ongoing digitalization initiatives, which are being spearheaded under the leadership of the President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake. During the high-level discussions, Mr. Saputhanthri engaged with global experts to examine emerging digital technologies and strategies that can drive inclusive and sustainable digital transformation in Sri Lanka.

On the sidelines of the Global Digital Summit, Mr. Saputhanthri held discussions with key officials from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. He met with Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director of the IMF, Dr. Krishnamoorthy Subramanian, Executive Director of the IMF, Dr. Krishna Srinivasan, Director of the Asia and Pacific Department of the IMF, and Dr. PKG Harischandra, Alternate Executive Director at the IMF.

During these meetings, Mr. Saputhanthri provided an update on the progress of Sri Lanka’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and expressed appreciation for the continued support of the IMF Executive Board, Senior Management, and Staff following the successful completion of the Third Review under the EFF in February 2025. He reaffirmed the Government of Sri Lanka’s commitment to meeting the forthcoming EFF review milestones. Discussions also covered the government’s ongoing digitalization efforts, aimed at supporting vulnerable communities, improving tax system efficiency, and enhancing overall economic productivity.

Mr. Saputhanthri also held a meeting with Mr. Martin Raiser, Vice President for the South Asia Region at the World Bank, to convey appreciation for the World Bank’s extensive support to Sri Lanka. Mr. Raiser reaffirmed the World Bank’s steadfast commitment to assisting Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and development. The discussions focused on future collaborations to ensure continued financial and technical support for the country’s long-term stability and growth.

Prime Minister’s Media Division

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that after closely observing discussions on the budget and the criticisms raised by the opposition, it is evident that the system change the people expected is currently taking place.

The Prime Minister made these remarks in Parliament today (20) during the Committee Stage Debate on the Budget.

The Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya further stated:

Throughout the past month, we have engaged in extensive discussions inside and outside of Parliament regarding the first budget of the government and we have met with trade unions, various institutions, and individuals to review their perspectives on the budget.

The proposals and criticisms which have been directed through those discussions have helped in strengthening the budget further.

However, I have observed whether there has been any progress in the statements made by the opposition from the first day of the budget debate to the present day as it is expected certain changes and development over a month of period.

However, when analyzing the content of certain speeches made by the opposition, it became clear that they are still in the same place.

The criticisms centered on the debate seemed to stem from the pain of wounded egos that cannot be resolved through a budget. When closely examining the discussions centered on the budget, it is evident that the system change the government is striving for is indeed taking action.

System change does not occur in one isolated area. It rather alters the power dynamics on the relationships within society. In a true system change, existing relationships are shifted and restructured. When observing who is most affected by this process, it is evident that the system change is taking place.

Many of the criticisms directed at the budget come through those who previously had misused power within the old system for personal privileges. A society organized by such privilege is not a democratic society. The aim of the government is to change the old system. A society where power was unfairly exploited is rejected by almost everyone.

The hardworking individuals, and the entrepreneurs who make fair and responsible investments, with ethical participation are content with this budget debate. It no longer requires them to seek political favors to establish their business projects. They are now granted the freedom to operate independently. Further, it has facilitated them with future planning and prediction.

The public service sector which is recognized now under the present government appreciates these changes. They are received with renewed sense of trust and value. There is a growing number of officials who are content with discharging their duties without being subject to any pressure.

Women, children, persons with disability, community in the upcountry, and many others who were previously marginalized are now receiving the satisfactory relief.

The new economic path for future is opening up, and they can see new opportunities ahead. This budget has provided a new light and a pathway forward for a significant number of the population that had been previously deprived of economic benefits.

The issue of unemployed youth has been widely debated, with accusations that promises have not been fulfilled. However, the reality is that instead of providing jobs that do not match qualifications or aspirations, we are creating sustainable pathways for development. We have already taken steps to generate many job opportunities. Delays in implementation have primarily been due to the chaotic decisions made by previous governments, as well as ongoing legal cases.

Criticism of the budget mainly comes from those who previously used public grievances to gain power and privilege for themselves.

Both public officials and elected representatives have made tremendous sacrifices and worked tirelessly to ensure that no one is left behind when making decisions.

Prime Minister’s Media Division