UN Is Now Working Closely With Sri Lanka
Subinay Nandy
On behalf of the United Nations system, may I start by thanking Your Excellency President Maithripala Sirisena for the kind invitation to speak today on this momentous occasion. I believe it signifies the strength of partnership that has been fostered between the United Nations and the Government over more than 60 years, and extensively re-affirmed throughout the last year.
I was extremely privileged to have been present at the Oath Taking Ceremony at the Independence Monument this time last year. It was an event I will never forget – it was history in the making, a moment that captured the attention of the world community and inspired the hearts and minds of many. Seeing such a peaceful transition speaks to the resilience of the Sri Lankan people.
Political Transition
In the one year since you took office, Sri Lanka has seen many changes, not least in terms of the political trajectory on which the country is set.
You entered office this time last year Your Excellency, with a strong commitment to eliminate poverty, fight corruption, bring forward good governance, promote religious freedom, address the rising cost of living and strengthen relations with the international community.
The UN Secretary General while congratulating Sri Lanka on the well-run elections, also noted Your Excellency, that on your shoulders rested an enormous responsibility. He spoke of the strong mandate given to you from the people, to lead Sri Lanka on a path of reform. He noted that this is a chance to advance accountability, reconciliation and to set the foundation for long-lasting peace, and build a society that is just and fair for all its citizens irrespective of ethnicity, caste religion, gender, age or sexual orientation.
Indeed, this was the intention of both yourself and the Honorable Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who have both expressed commitment to securing long term peace and reconciliation premised on principles of good governance while strengthening democratic institutions and ending impunity and inequality.
