President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized the urgent need for global cooperation to tackle climate change and economic instability, stating that climate crises affect both the rich and the poor alike. He called for collective action to address borderless challenges, urging nations to unite as global citizens.
Speaking at the 2025 World Government Summit in the United Arab Emirates on February 12, President Dissanayake outlined Sri Lanka’s vision for economic growth, innovation, and governance reforms, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation. He stressed that global issues require global solutions, emphasizing the importance of social justice, accountability, and the rule of law in shaping a fairer and more equitable world.
The President highlighted the importance of implementing agreements and policies in a structured manner, ensuring support for low-income and vulnerable communities, and protecting press freedom and activism as essential components of good governance. He called for an updated Universal Declaration of Human Rights, advocating for the inclusion of digital access rights and environmental rights to reflect modern challenges.
Addressing economic concerns, President Dissanayake noted that tightening global financial conditions, mounting debt repayments, and weaknesses in the international financial system have created significant challenges for many nations. He stressed the need for reforming financial systems to ensure fairer economic policies and debt management.
He also pointed to the importance of cybersecurity in a rapidly evolving digital world and urged global leaders to invest in education, skills development, and new job opportunities to support workers at risk of job displacement due to automation and artificial intelligence.
In a powerful message, President Dissanayake reflected on the need for unity, stating:
“The challenges we all face, as well as the ‘Love Dub’ rhythm in our hearts, are calling for us to come together and build a better world.”
Quoting Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous words, “We must learn to live together as brothers”, he highlighted Sri Lanka’s collective effort in 2024 to build a better future, describing it as a step towards creating a more prosperous and harmonious society.
Concluding his speech, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake invited world leaders and delegates to unite in building a better future for humanity, stating:
“Let us come together and create a beautiful life and a beautiful world.”
