Innovation is Very Important for a Proud Future - Prime Minister

The Innovation Islands Summit 2025, jointly organized by the Observer Research Foundation—an India-based global think tank—and the Capital Maharaja Group, was held at the ITC Ratnadeepa Hotel in Colombo on February 20–21. Diplomatic representatives and officials from nearly 50 countries participated in the summit.

Expressing her views further, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated:

"Today, the world is at a crucial juncture. We have to face challenges including climate change, economic instability, technological disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainty. But with challenges come opportunities. This conference is one such opportunity. It has provided a platform to formulate solutions uniquely suited to island nations like ours.

Innovation brings fresh ideas. Innovation challenges existing ways. As Sri Lanka prepares for a transformation, it is especially fitting to host a conference centered on innovation at this moment. This is a time when there is a sense of expectation, enthusiasm, and hope in Sri Lanka.

We look to the future with confidence. For a long time, as Sri Lankans, we have spoken about our past greatness—our history, our achievements. Certainly, there is much to be proud of in our heritage: ancient irrigation systems, architecture, religious monuments, literature, and art. We can trace back 2,500 years and reflect on our past. I invite you, our foreign guests, to spend some time exploring our heritage. There is so much to see and experience on our small island.

But today, we are talking about our potential for a proud future. Innovation is a vital topic in that conversation. However, there is also a certain danger in innovation. I speak of innovation as a catalyst for meaningful transformation.

It is not just about technology or science. We need fresh visions, new ideas, innovative models, and fresh thinking. We must carefully consider why some problems have remained unresolved for so long and approach these challenges from a new perspective."

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha and Chairman of the Observer Research Foundation of India, Sameer Saran.