"The Gampaha Wickramarachchi Institute of Indigenous Medicine has been upgraded to a university without even basic facilities."

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that a standard policy and procedure is followed when appointing principals to all schools.

The Prime Minister made these remarks yesterday (09) in Parliament, responding to a question raised by the opposition regarding an issue that had arisen at Bandaranayake College in Gampaha.

The Prime Minister further stated:

The past Government has turned the process of appointing principals for schools into a problematic matter. Without a proper procedure, acting principals were appointed, leading to prolonged unfairness for both the teachers and the schools leaving the school administration system to a problematic state. Currently a proper procedure is followed in correcting the system according to existing regulations. Principals are being appointed to all national schools and vacancies through interviews conducted in line with qualifications required for the position. We do not treat schools differently, every school is governed under the same policy and procedure. The principal appointment at Bandaranayake College, Gampaha, was also carried out according to this standard procedure.

A number of issues had been identified based on written and verbal complaints made by various parties regarding the Gampaha Wickramarachchi Institute of Indigenous Medicine. Consequently, an expert committee has been appointed to examine the matter in a formal and analytical manner. Discussions were held with both the academic staff and students, and several key issues had been identified through the initial discussions.

Notably, the Gampaha Wickramarachchi Institute of Indigenous Medicine was upgraded to university without even the most basic facilities. New faculties and degree programs have been launched without adequate human resources or infrastructure. Further, beyond the core objectives of indigenous medicine, programs such as technology, social sciences, and management have been introduced without sufficient facilities. The Prime Minister stated that a formal committee has been appointed to investigate these matters and prepare a report to recommend the necessary actions.

Prime Minister’s media Division

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the government is committed to ensuring justice for the victims affected by the injustices related to enforced disappearances.

The Prime Minister made these remarks today (09) in Parliament while responding to a question raised by Member of Parliament Shanakiyan Rasamanickam.

The Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya further stated:

"The government is committed to delivering the justice to those who have been affected by the issue of disappearances. However, we cannot conduct these investigations on a personal basis and such matters must be addressed legally and institutionally.

The institutional and systemic failures in the past years mainly caused the delays in these matters. Therefore, such issues are needed to be addressed.

This is not about gaining popularity, instead it is necessary to establish institutions and environment to ensure that such incidents do not recur, while addressing the existing injustices.

The public has lost their trust in the Office for Reparations and the Office on Missing Persons because they were merely established in name and lacked adequate strength and were largely ineffective.

This is what happened in the past, and that is what expected to be corrected. Hence, it must be ensured that the right individuals are placed in positions, that sufficient resources are allocated, and that the institutions are capable of fulfilling their responsibilities.

There are still pending legal disputes related to the missing persons. Some of these cases have been under disputed for the past 16 years. It is not an easy task, but the government is committed to ensuring justice."

Additionally, the Prime Minister stated that the Cabinet has approved the proposal submitted by the Ministry of Justice to appoint a committee to provide recommendations for the repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act.

Prime Minister’s media Division

The International Montery Fund (IMF) delegation paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya today (07) at the Prime Minister’s Office to review the economic affairs of the country.

The discussion was centered on progress of Sri Lanka thus far under the IMF-supported programme and the next steps required to achieve the future economic targets of the country.

Both parties exchanged views on emerging economic challenges, and need for progress solution and action.

The event was attended by Secretary to the Prime Minister Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, IMF delegation of Incoming Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, Mr. Evan Papageorgiou, Deputy Director, Asia and Pacific Department of the IMF, Mr. Sanjaya Panth, Outgoing Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, Mr. Peter Breuer, IMF Resident Representative Ms. Martha Woldemichael and representatives of the Ministry of foreign affairs and Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

Prime Minister’s media Division

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the Our government remains committed to creating an environment where all women in Sri Lanka can thrive and contribute their talents fully.

She made these remarks while addressing the "IMRA Awards for Excellence 2025" organized by the IMRA Foundation, held on April 07th at the Kingsbury Hotel, Colombo.

Prime Minister stated that,

"To night we gather not just to celebrate achievements but to acknowledge indomitable spirit an extraordinary contributions of muslim women across Sri Lanka. I am happy to see the dedication of the IMRA Foundation to provide a platform for these remarkable women to showcase their talents ,their dedication and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

These women in their diverse fields from Law and healthcare to education , media and entrepreneurship are not merely participants in our society. They are architects of its future.

We have seen remarkable innovation in entrepreneurship and inspiring dedication within our education and healthcare sectors among many other fields. It is clear that despite societal of perception and challenges these women have achieved remarkable success that shows in their chosen proffessions and vocations becoming a significant force in our nation.

Let us dispel the outdated notion that Muslim women take a back seat. On the contrary, they are at the forefront, leading with strength, wisdom, and grace. They are role models, inspiring not only their communities but all of Sri Lanka. The aim of the IMRA Foundation, as I understand it, is to showcase just how misleading negative stereotypes can be by celebrating and recognizing the outstanding talents and contributions of this extraordinary group, thereby creating role models for the wider community.

As important as it is to dispel notions about Muslim stereotypes, we need to acknowledge the fact that misogynistic beliefs shape many notions about women in general in Sri Lanka. This is evident when we consider rising levels of domestic violence, online abuse, low rates of participation of women in politics and high levels of decision making, and often vitriolic attacks on women in the limelight be it politics, show business or any other field.

It is important we recognise this as a societal issue and not just a problem of a particular community- thinking in that way is also stereotypical.

Tonight, we celebrate not just individual achievements but the collective strength and resilience of Muslim women in Sri Lanka. It is no secret that not only does it take a village to raise a child, but it takes a village and more to uplift women. The stories we celebrate tonight are a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for future generations.

As we move forward, let us continue to foster an environment where every woman feels empowered to pursue her dreams, to break barriers, and to contribute to the rich tapestry of our nation.

Let us ensure that the achievements we celebrate tonight inspire a legacy of empowerment and progress for all. "

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya presented awards to the following: - IMRA Excellence Awards Legal & advocacy Ms.Shaeeda Barrie,Art & Culture - Ameena Hussein,Scholarship & Education - Ramola Rassool ,Health & Medicine - Prof.Faseeha Noordeen,Architecture - Shehela Latiff, Media & Communication - Shyama Akoob And IMRA Raising Star award - Hamna Kizar, For Sport - Saajida Razick ,For Education - Rizka Naushad ,Lifetime Achievement awards to Sandra Wanduragala, Shivanandini Duraiswamy, Sunela Jayawardena and Anberiya Hanifa.

The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Governor of western province Mr. Hanif Yusoof, Former politician Ferial Ashroff and numerous entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, all united in their commitment to drive Sri Lanka’s ahead.

Prime Minister’s media Division

Her Excellency Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, and Chair of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit,
Heads of Government and Heads of Delegation of the BIMSTEC member States,
Secretary General of BIMSTEC,
Distinguished Delegates,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I begin by congratulating the Prime Minister of Thailand for assuming the Chairmanship of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, and for her inspiring opening address.

Madam Chair,

Your beautiful country is one with which Sri Lanka has deep and enduring cultural and religious bonds, and it is an honour for me to represent Sri Lanka at this BIMSTEC Summit that is chaired by you today.

I bring with me, Madam Chair, the greetings and good wishes of the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Disanayake and the people of Sri Lanka; and I wish to thank you, and the Government of Thailand for the warm and gracious hospitality extended to me and my delegation. I also wish to express our appreciation for the efficient and effective leadership provided by Thailand as Chair of BIMSTEC since the 5th Summit in 2022.

At this moment, I also wish to state that Sri Lanka stands in solidarity with those affected by the earthquake that stuck Myanmar and Thailand few days ago. Our sincere condolences to those that have lost loved ones and we wish those that have suffered injuries a speedy recovery. We recognize that in times of tragedy, the strength of regional partnerships becomes even more vital.

Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentleman,

Twenty-eight years ago, in 1997, this city gave birth to BIMSTEC when the Bangkok Declaration was signed. Twenty-one years ago in 2004, this city hosted the first BIMSTEC Summit. BIMSTEC has journeyed far since then. Its membership has expanded; it has a full-fledged Secretariat headed by a Secretary General; and it has a Charter, giving it legal personality and scope to reach whatever heights of regional cooperation that we as member Governments want BIMSTEC to achieve. It is now entirely up to us to decide how effective we want BIMSTEC to be, and how we wish to collectively shape it and empower it to achieve goals and outcomes that would benefit the people of the BIMSTEC countries.

This Summit in Bangkok is an important one. We adopt today, the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030 which envisions a “Prosperous, Resilient and Open BIMSTEC”, where poverty is substantially reduced and progress towards sustainable development and growth are achieved; where crisis-preparedness, responsiveness and human security in various dimensions and post-pandemic economic recovery are strengthened; and an inclusive multi-pronged and multi-stakeholder approach is adopted to achieve our goals.

Excellencies,

This Summit takes place at a time when the world is witnessing change and disruption. The global political environment fosters insecurity. There is increasing economic uncertainty. And multilateralism is under threat.

In this context, the logical and pragmatic approach for us as neighbours and friends in BIMSTEC is to resolve to pursue our quest for closer and mutually beneficial ties with renewed vigour. We must exert efforts to forge stronger and more meaningful ties; and explore imaginative, creative, and innovative ways of enhancing cooperation in the best interest of the people of our region. Although we face many challenges, we similarly have many unexplored opportunities as well in numerous fields including trade, economic cooperation and connectivity which, if seized, will benefit all our countries.

We must approach issues with open and accommodative mindsets to seek solutions to what has held us back from moving forward; we must find ways to share knowledge, technology, intelligence, and best practice; improve physical, digital, and energy connectivity; and accelerate the pace and depth of cooperation in the sectors and sub-sectors of BIMSTEC cooperation.

I believe that we must resolve to work on strengthening BIMSTEC as an organization that our countries cannot do without. We must also explore ways in which BIMSTEC can forge new and closer cooperation with international organizations, and means of resource mobilization to meet our goals.

Excellencies,

As the only island nation in BIMSTEC, we welcome the signing of the Maritime Transport Cooperation Agreement today. Sri Lanka seeks to develop its ports and related infrastructure required to make our country a hub in the Indian Ocean that can serve all the BIMSTEC member states and the wider Indian Ocean region.

Excellencies,

As the lead country in BIMSTEC for the Science, Technology, and Innovation Sector, and the sub-sectors of Public Health and Human Resource Development, Sri Lanka remains firmly committed to strengthening cooperation in these areas.

During the 5th Summit in 2022, member States signed the MoU for the establishment of the BIMSTEC Technology Transfer Facility (TTF) in Colombo. I understand that all member States have completed their respective domestic formalities, so now we can take steps to convene the Governing Board of the Centre at an early date.

Excellencies,

Since the 5th Summit in 2022, Sri Lanka has taken the initiative to formulate BIMSTEC Plans of Action in Science, Technology, and Innovation; Public Health; and Human Resource Development, and has worked with all member States to have them finalized and adopted. We now look to the cooperation of all the member States to implement these Plans.

The BIMSTEC Plan of Action on Human Resource Development was finalized by the Expert Group recently. The plan aims to equip the people of the BIMSTEC countries with the skills necessary to address future challenges, ensuring that BIMSTEC remains resilient and competitive in the global landscape. As you would agree, prioritizing human resource development is essential for the long-term progress and prosperity of our Member States, and I urge that we accelerate our efforts in working towards achieving meaningful outcomes in this area.

Excellencies,

We welcome the Report of the Eminent Persons Group and look forward to working on the Group’s recommendations to make BIMSTEC realize its Vision 2030 and meet the aspirations of our people.

Madam Chair,
Excellencies,

As Bangladesh will be assuming the Chair of BIMSTEC next, I take this opportunity to convey Sri Lanka’s best wishes, and assure Bangladesh of our fullest cooperation. I would also like to express our appreciation to Bangladesh for hosting the BIMSTEC Secretariat in Dhaka.

I also acknowledge the important work being carried out by our Secretary General, H.E. Indra Mani Pandey and the staff of the Secretariat.

I conclude my remarks by reaffirming Sri Lanka’s firm commitment to regional cooperation for mutual benefit, and by pledging Sri Lanka’s continued support to translate BIMSTEC ideals into meaningful cooperation on the ground. Our primary responsibility is to cooperate and work together to achieve a better life for all our people, and this is a noble quest which must inspire and unite us every single day.

Thank you.

The Member States of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) express their deepest condolences to the governments and peoples of Myanmar and Thailand in the aftermath of the powerful earthquake of 7.7 magnitude that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025.

This tragic event has caused immense loss of life, injuries, and widespread damage, particularly in the areas surrounding the epicenter. The tremors were also felt in neighboring countries. BIMSTEC stands in solidarity with the affected people and communities.

BIMSTEC will work through its established mechanisms to support relief and recovery efforts, including collaboration through the BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate to provide critical weather information and enhance early warning systems in the region. BIMSTEC also acknowledges the importance of strengthening regional capacities for disaster management and emphasizes the earliest establishment of the BIMSTEC Disaster Management Centre.

We appreciate efforts of the BIMSTEC Member States in providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to Myanmar.

BIMSTEC remains resolute in its commitment to strengthening regional cooperation in disaster management, climate change and humanitarian assistance, effectively mitigating the impact of natural disasters, and working towards a Prosperous, Resilient and Open BIMSTEC, in accordance with the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030.

Prime Minister’s Media Division