Colombo (September 25, 2024) – In his inaugural address to the nation, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake pledged to fast-track Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and implement wide-ranging reforms to stabilize the economy and uplift the nation. He emphasized that his government will focus on rebuilding trust in the country’s economic future while addressing structural challenges through short-term and long-term measures.
Addressing the nation today after assuming office, President Dissanayake said, “We will negotiate with the relevant parties to continue the debt restructuring program and finalize the necessary agreements as soon as possible. Through these negotiations, we aim to secure the loan relief required to stabilize our economy.”
The President expressed confidence that both the international community and the people of Sri Lanka would support this initiative, asserting that securing financial stability is essential for broader reforms. “We believe that we can win the support of the people and the international community to carry forward this program in Sri Lanka,” he added.
Acknowledging the People’s Mandate
President Dissanayake began his address by thanking the people of Sri Lanka for their continued support of his political movement. He reflected on the decades-long struggle to gain public trust, despite opposition and slander, and credited this victory to the people’s determination for change.
“We extend our respect to all who have stood with us for years, and to the many generations who made sacrifices, even their lives, for this victory. The strength you have shown is what empowered us to stand here today,” he said.
Dissanayake assured the nation that his leadership, alongside his capable team, would work tirelessly to build a prosperous Sri Lanka, guided by a collective effort. He called for unity, not only from those who supported his movement but also from those who opposed it, emphasizing that the success of the nation depends on the involvement of all its citizens.
Focus on Economic Stability
The President acknowledged that while long-term structural changes are necessary, the immediate priority is to stabilize the economy. He outlined his government’s plan to implement short-term economic measures to restore confidence and set the stage for deeper reforms.
“For the change we are aiming for, it is crucial to raise the economy to a stable level first. Before implementing long-term and medium-term plans, we are focused on establishing short-term stability through urgent economic measures,” President Dissanayake explained.
He committed to promptly addressing Sri Lanka’s debt crisis by negotiating with the IMF and related creditors, with the goal of securing debt relief as soon as possible. These measures, he said, would provide the country with the financial breathing room necessary to implement the long-term changes that would drive sustained growth.
A Call for Unity Beyond Politics
Dissanayake urged political leaders to focus on the collective effort of rebuilding the country, stressing that political competition should not stand in the way of national development. “It is the right of anyone to strategize for gaining power in politics, but at this moment, I emphasize the importance of coming together to build the country,” he said.
He pointed to the peaceful transition of power and the absence of post-election violence as evidence of the people’s trust in his leadership. He expressed his commitment to preserving this peaceful political culture and making it a cornerstone of his administration.
“Our aim is to confirm and stabilize this situation. We want to create a political culture where the people’s mandate is respected, and leaders work together for the nation,” Dissanayake stated, adding that the days of political violence and divisive rhetoric must come to an end.
Social Justice and Equality
One of the central themes of President Dissanayake’s speech was the need to build a nation that values diversity and provides equal opportunities for all its citizens, regardless of race, religion, class, or caste. He emphasized that Sri Lanka can only succeed if it unites as a single nation, free from the divisions that have historically held it back.
“We are building a practical country where all citizens—be they Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher, or Malay—can live with pride, saying ‘we are Sri Lankan citizens’,” he said. He committed to pursuing constitutional, economic, and political reforms that would ensure social justice and equality for all citizens.
Reforming Public Service and Governance
Dissanayake highlighted the need to transform Sri Lanka’s public service into an efficient and honest institution that serves the people. He pointed out that building a capable public service is critical to achieving the government’s broader goals of development and social welfare.
“We are committed to establishing an efficient, honest, and populist public service,” he said. He also emphasized that his administration would take swift measures to ensure that government officials are accountable and that the public sector is guided by the principles of transparency and integrity.
Education and the Future of Sri Lanka’s Youth
President Dissanayake made special mention of the importance of providing quality education to all children in Sri Lanka, calling it a fundamental right for every parent to expect a bright future for their children. He committed to improving the country’s education system by providing better opportunities and resources.
“Every parent in this country deserves to provide their child with a good school and a good education. We are committed to securing the future of the next generation by fostering knowledge, attitudes, and skills,” he said.
Women’s Empowerment and Social Protection
Addressing the role of women in Sri Lankan society, President Dissanayake emphasized the importance of strengthening women’s representation in leadership positions. “Women, who make up 52% of our population, are crucial to the country’s social and economic processes. We are taking steps to strengthen their representation in all institutions,” he stated, pointing to the appointment of a female Prime Minister as an example of this commitment.
Additionally, Dissanayake promised to implement a strong social safety net for disabled and vulnerable groups in society, ensuring that no one is left behind on the country’s journey toward development.
A Vision for the Future
In closing, President Dissanayake outlined his vision for a Sri Lanka that is respected on the global stage—a nation where citizens take pride in their identity and live in a just and prosperous society. He emphasized the need for collective action to realize this vision, calling on all Sri Lankans to contribute to the country’s development.
“We want to build a country where our citizens can proudly say ‘I am a Sri Lankan,’” he said. “Together, let us build a rich and beautiful country that celebrates diversity.”
