Speaking on the theme “Steering Change in Uncertain Times” at the summit titled “Edge of the Unknown: Risk, Resolve, Renewal,” the Prime Minister highlighted Sri Lanka’s journey from crisis to recovery, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance as pillars of the nation’s progress.
Dr. Amarasuriya outlined the government’s economic reform agenda under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, including debt restructuring, sound fiscal management, and digital transformation. She noted that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank have recognised Sri Lanka’s fiscal consolidation as one of the largest in its history.
The Prime Minister also spoke on social inclusion, noting the increase in women’s parliamentary representation to nearly 10% and the active participation of persons with disabilities and members of the Malayagam community in governance.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s deepening partnership with India, Dr. Amarasuriya acknowledged India’s support during the 2022 economic crisis and ongoing collaboration across energy, connectivity, education, defence, trade, and technology. She also stressed the need to upgrade the India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (1998) and integrate Sri Lanka into India’s manufacturing and service value chains in line with the Viksit Bharat vision.
The Prime Minister emphasized initiatives such as GovPay, e-identity systems, and open data portals to enhance transparency and combat corruption. Addressing the youth, she urged them to see innovation as both technological and moral, shaping systems that are fair, inclusive, and humane.
Concluding her address, Dr. Amarasuriya reaffirmed that Sri Lanka is ready to work in partnership with India and the international community to build a clean, inclusive, and forward-looking democracy, and to promote shared prosperity in the region.
