The Canadian Government has reaffirmed its support for Sri Lanka’s efforts to reduce rural poverty and strengthen assistance for low-income families during a meeting between Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment Dr. Upali Pannila and Canadian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Isabelle Martin.
According to the Ministry, the discussions focused on expanding cooperation in rural development and social welfare programmes.
During the meeting, High Commissioner Martin commended the government’s initiatives to stabilize the economy, promote transparent governance, and respond to challenges posed by Cyclone Ditwah and the crisis in the Middle East.
Minister Pannila also briefed the Canadian delegation on the government’s “Praja Shakthi” national poverty alleviation programme, with the High Commissioner expressing Canada’s willingness to support its implementation.
The discussions further covered measures to strengthen social protection programmes for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, while Canada also agreed to provide technical assistance for rural development and social security initiatives.
Senior officials from the Canadian High Commission and the Ministry, including Ministry Secretary Sampath Mantrinayake, attended the meeting.
