Addressing the gathering, the President emphasised the deep respect traditionally accorded to women in Sri Lankan society. He noted that according to Buddhist culture, a mother is regarded as second only to the Buddha, highlighting the profound honour given to motherhood and womanhood in the country.
Quoting the words of renowned writer Maxim Gorky, who once stated that “the world exists through the light of the sun and a mother’s milk,” President Dissanayake said the government is committed to creating a brighter and more hopeful future for generations of women who have long endured hardship, sorrow and heavy burdens both emotionally and socially.
The President stated that the government has already initiated several programmes aimed at improving the lives of women across the country. These include efforts to eradicate the drug menace, initiatives to eliminate rural poverty so that economic benefits reach grassroots communities, and a comprehensive education reform programme.
He also highlighted housing development projects, plans to expand entrepreneurial opportunities for women, and new support programmes for underprivileged women as well as women affected by the war.
President Dissanayake further emphasised the government’s vision of presenting Sri Lanka to the world as a nation that upholds humanity and compassion. In such a society built on humane values, he said, women and children should never be left vulnerable or unsafe.
Concluding his address, the President invited women across the country to unite with strength and determination to help build a prosperous nation and a dignified future where women’s rights are firmly protected.
