Colombo, May 27 — Canada has expressed a strong commitment to supporting the implementation of Sri Lanka’s official language policy, with the goal of enhancing multilingual public service delivery across the island. Canadian High Commissioner Eric Walsh emphasized this during a meeting with Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Dr. A.H.M.H. Abayaratne.
High Commissioner Walsh highlighted Canada’s experience in managing bilingual governance, particularly in Quebec where, despite French being the primary language, public services are accessible in English as well. He noted that Canada is prepared to assist Sri Lanka through formal agreements, particularly in areas where linguistic inclusivity can be improved in public administration.
Minister Abayaratne acknowledged the importance of offering public services in languages familiar to citizens and stated that foundational steps have already been taken to ensure language rights are upheld in both central and provincial administrations. He affirmed that the Ministry is actively working to expand and simplify these efforts, including through digitization projects aimed at reducing language-related barriers.
“The government is committed to delivering an efficient, inclusive public service free from linguistic discrimination,” said Minister Abayaratne, adding that language accessibility is central to a citizen-focused public administration.
The two sides also discussed strengthening Sri Lanka’s democratic processes, including the establishment of a free and violence-free electoral system. High Commissioner Walsh commended Sri Lanka’s efforts in this area and reaffirmed Canada’s support for fair and peaceful elections.
Minister Abayaratne, in turn, stressed the importance of revitalizing Provincial Councils to improve regional governance and accelerate national development. He noted that effective decentralization through Provincial Councils would not only empower local communities but also bolster administrative efficiency.
Both sides praised the proactive role played by the Ministry of Public Administration in promoting good governance, linguistic rights, and electoral integrity.
The discussion was also attended by Ministry Secretary S. Aloka Bandara and senior officials from both Sri Lanka and the Canadian High Commission, signaling a growing collaboration aimed at reinforcing democratic values and inclusive governance in Sri Lanka.
