The final draft of the Budget 2025 was presented for the review of President Anura Kumara Disanayake today (16) at the Presidential Secretariat.
Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Mahinda Siriwardana, was also attend at this occasion.
• Focus on Strengthening Economic Cooperation between Sri Lanka and Vietnam
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam, Bui Thanh Son, stated that Vietnam is committed to further enhancing the existing cooperation and friendship between Sri Lanka and Vietnam. He also expressed Vietnam’s readiness to share its experiences in supporting Sri Lanka’s economic growth goals.
This statement was made during a meeting between President Anura Kumara Disanayake and Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son yesterday (12) at the World Governments Summit 2025 held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Discussions were held to further develop the political trust, long-standing friendship, and cooperation that have been built over the past 55 years between Vietnam and Sri Lanka.
President Anura Kumara Disanayake emphasized that there is ample opportunity for both countries to enhance their long-term economic cooperation. He also invited Vietnamese investors to consider investing in sectors such as agriculture, education, religion, culture, tourism, and air services in Sri Lanka.
President Anura Kumara Disanayake, who participated in the World Governments Summit 2025 held in the United Arab Emirates, met yesterday (12) with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
The meeting was also attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, as well as Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE.
During the discussions, emphasis was placed on the importance of strengthening state-level coordination globally and collaborating on innovative solutions to address economic and developmental challenges.
Sheikh Mohammed praised Sri Lanka’s efforts and commitment to enhancing international partnerships and exchanging expertise with global leaders in governance and strategic sectors. He also reaffirmed the UAE’s support for further strengthening the remarkable progress achieved in bilateral partnerships over the past few years.
President Anura Kumara Disanayake expressed gratitude to the UAE for its support in developing key sectors in Sri Lanka. He highlighted the significant progress made in investments, trade, and tourism as a result of bilateral relations.
Additionally, the President commended the World Governments Summit’s remarkable role in equipping global leaders with the strategic vision required to enhance international partnerships, advance governance practices, and explore new opportunities while addressing challenges.
A preliminary discussion on the final phase of drafting the Budget 2025, which is scheduled to be presented to Parliament on February 17, was held this afternoon (13) at the Presidential Secretariat under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Disanayake.
The discussion was attended by Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation K.D. Lalkantha, Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe, Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development Dr. Anil Jayanta Fernando, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance Mahinda Siriwardana, along with several senior government officials.
Today (12) marks the third day of President Anura Kumara Disanayake’s official visit to the United Arab Emirates.
This afternoon, the President is scheduled to address the main session of the World Governments Summit, where he will outline Sri Lanka’s vision on economic growth, innovation and governance reforms.
His speech is expected to highlight Sri Lanka’s commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation.
President Anura Kumara Disanayake, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates to participate in the 2025 World Governments Summit, met with the Prime Minister of State of Kuwait His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al Ahmad Al Sabah yesterday afternoon (11).
During the discussion, President Disanayake highlighted Sri Lanka’s improved political and financial stability, emphasizing the expanded potentials in investment and tourism sectors.
Both leaders focused on strengthening trade relations and diversifying markets between the two countries. They also discussed the importance of exploring new strategic initiatives to enhance economic cooperation.
President Disanayake expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al Ahmad Al Sabah and the State of Kuwait for its support in securing the International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan facility, acknowledging its contribution to Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.
Additionally, the President noted that approximately 155,000 Sri Lankan workers are employed in Kuwait, contributing USD 700 million in annual remittances, which serves as a significant boost to Sri Lanka’s economy.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, accompanied the President on this visit.
Esteemed state leaders, distinguished delegates representing various organisations, honoured guests, members of the media and all those present, I seek your permission to address this extraordinary summit.
It is a great privilege to speak at this significant gathering, held at a crucial juncture in human history, at a time when the world calls for unprecedented global cooperation.
My country is a beautiful island nation with a unique history, a present filled with optimistic dreams for the future and a citizenry that possesses broad political and social awareness. The people of my country have a deep sense of empathy for events occurring anywhere in the world. While they cherish their traditions, they also demonstrate the wisdom and openness necessary to embrace change when required.
Moreover, if you were to search the internet at this very moment with your mobile phone and ask, “Which country has the highest number of eye donations in the world?” the answer would be the nation I represent, located at the edge of the Indian subcontinent: ‘Sri Lanka’.
It is a great honour and privilege for me to represent a nation of such altruistic and warm-hearted citizens, I take immense pride in addressing you on their behalf.
I believe that this summit, which focuses on developing future strategies and policies concerning critical aspects of human progress, will contribute positively to global well-being at some point.
Today, the challenges we face at national, regional and global levels are vast and complex.
Some choose to ignore these issues, embarking on self-cantered journeys. However, isolated problems of today soon evolve into global concerns of tomorrow, knocking on everyone’s doors ultimately bringing an end to solitary pursuits.
Therefore, I reiterate the importance of uniting as global citizens to confront cross-border challenges together. Addressing these crises requires collective global action and a unified front.
Effective Governance and Accountability
Enhancing governance accountability and efficiency is essential for the future world. Citizens must be encouraged to transition from individual efforts to collective initiatives.
The structure of state institutions and bureaucratic systems must prioritize accountability and responsibility, as these are crucial for the future of governance.
Social justice and the rule of law are not only vital for a regulated state but also for a well-functioning professional world. Proper implementation of agreements and laws, systematic support for low-income and vulnerable communities and ensuring accountability through an independent media and social activism are all of paramount importance.
The emergence of digital access rights, environmental rights and other new rights—along with evolving political systems—highlights the need for an updated universal declaration on human rights, which was not envisioned in the 1948 declaration. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and proactive engagement in addressing these pressing issues.
As we strive to build a global community founded on sustainable values, it is crucial to uphold respect for the diverse cultural traditions across the world.
Financing the Future and the Global Economy
Nearly 60% of the poorest countries are either in a debt crisis or at high risk of one, raising serious concerns about the future of the global economy. With tightening global financial conditions, the prospect of massive debt repayments and a poorly prepared international financial structure, the global economic outlook appears increasingly precarious. Transforming into a fair and equitable financial system is of critical importance.
Climate, Crisis Mitigation and Resilient Cities
The world is heading toward the devastating consequences of uncontrolled industrial growth, including climate change, loss of biodiversity, and severe corruption. These issues are more frightening than a catastrophic celestial event that could impact Earth in a matter of years. While many developed countries have historically contributed to three-quarters of carbon dioxide emissions, their exposure to the impacts of climate change remains relatively low. Despite significant advancements in development, many naturally beautiful low-income countries are being ravaged by the harmful actions of others. These countries and islands, once known for their pristine coastlines, are now plagued by these disasters. If you ever visit our country, you will be astonished by the breath-taking coastal areas surrounding
us. We are committed to making enormous efforts to protect our coastlines and preserve their beauty.
Human-Cantered Future and Sustainable Growth
The digital revolution has already transformed the way people live, work, and communicates. While these technologies have the potential to help billions of people lead happier, healthier, and more productive lives, they also create new challenges for citizens and governments around the world. It is important not to forget that the very technologies that empower individuals can also present significant risks. Take a computer virus, for example—though it doesn’t attack with a bullet or a nuclear bomb, it can wreak havoc in ways that are far more dangerous than traditional warfare, as evidenced by the increasing threat of cyber-attacks in recent years.
Global Health Transformation
Over the next two decades, population growth, urbanization, and the rise of antimicrobial resistance will likely contribute to the continuation and expansion of several health challenges.
As humans, we are inevitably interconnected. For over a year, a virus caused much of the global population to conceal their faces behind masks, creating significant pressure in both wealthy and impoverished nations.
In 2024, the world saw an increase or resurgence of several infectious diseases. Among non-communicable diseases, cancer has had an extraordinary impact on people’s lives. At this moment, millions of cancer patients are fighting for survival. Heart disease, regardless of national borders, continues to devastate lives, and it has become a major global crisis. Health experts predict that by 2030, the economic cost of mental health disorders worldwide could exceed $16 trillion.
The climate crisis is expected to result in an additional 14.5 million deaths by 2050, according to predictions.
In this context, it is crucial to focus on digital health, new technologies, and modern health tools, as well as the relationship between environmental health, sustainability, and health financial cooperation for economically vulnerable countries.
At times, you may represent the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, or the West. However, the problems we all face and the call for unity, as expressed through the “lub dub” sound in our hearts, urge us to build the world together.
As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “We must learn to live together as brothers.” If we don’t, he also foresaw the consequences.
We have united with a purpose to provide our people with “a thriving nation, a beautiful life,” a goal that has been historically endorsed.
At this historic summit, I urge you to join us in building a beautiful life and a beautiful world.
Thank you.
• President Meets with Pakistani Prime Minister and Former British Prime Minister
• World Leaders Praise Corruption-Free Governance
President Anura Kumara Disanayake who is currently attending the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai held several high-level bilateral discussions with Heads of State, today (11).
During the day, the President met with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. Prime Minister Sharif extended his congratulations to President Disanayake on his government’s significant electoral victory in Sri Lanka.
The discussions focused on strengthening trade relations and diversifying markets between the two countries. Both leaders also deliberated on the importance of adopting a new strategic framework to enhance economic co-operation.
President Disanayake briefed the Pakistani Prime Minister on Sri Lanka’s current economic policies, emphasizing that his administration is committed to transparent and corruption-free economic management. He further highlighted that such governance would create a solid foundation for Sri Lanka’s economic growth.
Additionally, the discussion placed special emphasis on promoting tourism between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, exploring opportunities to boost the industry in both countries.
Meanwhile, President Disanayake also met with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The discussions revolved around the potential for Sri Lanka to leverage the United Kingdom’s expertise and specialized knowledge in various sectors.
President Disanayake briefed Blair on the investment opportunities in Sri Lanka’s health, ports and tourism sectors, extending an invitation for UK investors to explore these prospects.
Former British Prime Minister Blair highlighted the potential for Sri Lanka to benefit from expertise in climate change adaptation, good governance and agricultural advancements.
Additionally, he commended Sri Lanka’s current administration for its transparency and corruption-free governance, specifically recognizing these qualities as key strengths of the present leadership.
Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath also accompanied the President on this visit.
• World Governments Summit 2025 Commences
Today (11) marks the second day of President Anura Kumara Disanayake’s three-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The President is scheduled to participate in the plenary session of the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai, held under the theme ‘Shaping Future Governments.’ Throughout the day, he is also set to engage in several strategically significant bilateral discussions.
Accordingly, arrangements have been made for bilateral talks with the CEO of Dow Jones, followed by a meeting with Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
Additionally, President Disanayake will hold discussions with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and later in the afternoon, he is scheduled to engage in a bilateral meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to discuss key issues of mutual interest.
Following this, the President will also meet the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Oracle.
In the evening, President Disanayake will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister of State of Kuwait His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al Ahmad Al Sabah.
Concluding the day’s engagements, the President will attend a community event at the Pullman City Centre.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath is also accompanying President Anura Kumara Disanayake on this visit.
President Anura Kumara Disanayake, along with his delegation, arrived at Dubai International Airport this afternoon (10) to participate in the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025, which is scheduled to take place from February 11 to 13 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Upon arrival, the delegation, including the President, was warmly welcomed by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and other state officials.
Also present at the reception were Embassy of Sri Lanka to the United Arab Emirates Chargé d’ affaires Thakshila Arnolda and Consul General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and the Northern Emirates Alexi Gunasekera, along with representatives from the Sri Lanka Embassy in Dubai.
This afternoon, President Disanayake is scheduled to meet with Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Chairman of the Master Investment Group and the ruler’s representative for Ras Al Khaimah. During this meeting, discussions will focus on strengthening economic and investment cooperation between Sri Lanka and the UAE.
Following the said discussion, the President is expected to attend the ‘TIME 100 Gala Dinner’ at the renowned Museum of the Future in Dubai.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath, is also accompanying the President on this visit.