President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has reiterated his unwavering commitment to restoring Sri Lanka’s international reputation—not as a criminal state shielded by political patronage, but as a well-governed, law-abiding nation.
The President stressed that although Sri Lanka is blessed with natural resources, past leaders had failed to steer the country toward prosperity due to a lack of coherent, long-term planning. In contrast, the current administration is focused on systematically rebuilding the national economy with an emphasis on stability and sustainable development, the President’s Media Division (PMD) reported.
President Dissanayake made these remarks while attending a religious ceremony this afternoon to declare open the newly constructed Relic Chamber (Dathu Mandiraya) and unveil the Meth Bodhisattva statue at Siri Samadhi Maha Viharaya in Pahaminiyagama, Galkiriyagama.
He participated in the event at the invitation of the Venerable Kagama Sirinanda Thero and had the honour of offering the first floral tribute following the opening of the Relic Chamber.
Addressing the gathering, President Dissanayake stated that he has never pursued power out of personal ambition or for positional gain. Rather, as a leader who understands the everyday struggles of the people, he remains steadfast in his mission to build a prosperous nation for all citizens.
The President emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and creating an inclusive nation for all communities. He also assured that protecting future generations from the threat of drug abuse remains a top priority. Measures are already being implemented to strengthen the institutional framework necessary to effectively combat illegal drug trafficking and related crimes.
President Dissanayake further highlighted the crucial role of the Maha Sangha and all religious leaders in nurturing a compassionate and disciplined society—an essential pillar for national development. He also commended Venerable Kagama Sirinanda Thero for his invaluable contributions to both social and spiritual well-being.
The event was attended by leading members of the Buddhist clergy, including the Anuradhapura Atamasthanadhipathi, Chief Sanghanayaka of Nuwara Kalaviya, Ven. Pallégama Hemarathana Nayaka Thera, and the Tri-Nikaya Maha Sangha, led by Venerable Mahalakotwe Wimaladhamma Thero, the Chief Sanghanayaka for the Matale District of the Malwatta Chapter of the Siam Maha Nikaya.
Among the dignitaries present were Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Wasantha Samarasinghe and Member of Parliament Thilina Samarakoon.
— PMD
