Congratulating President Rajapaksa on his leadership, Mr. Ban acknowledged the progress that has been made in Sri Lanka in the years after the war and expressed his optimism that the remaining challenges would also be overcome with this type of political leadership.
President Rajapaksa outlined the developments that have taken place, including the near-completion of all demining activities, the improvement of health services, and the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-combatants, among others achievements. The President also informed the Secretary-General of the rehabilitation of schools that the Government has undertaken in war-affected areas. President Rajapaksa pointed out that, unlike before, some of the island’s best results from national examinations now originate from the Northern Province.
Sec-Gen Ban also underscored the need for wider political consultation for a successful political process. In this regard, he noted that all political parties must engage.
President Rajapaksa invited Mr. Ban to make another visit to Sri Lanka to assess the development since his last visit.
Monitoring MP of the Ministry of External Affairs Mr. Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga, Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs Mrs. Kshenuka Senewiratne, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations Dr. Palitha Kohona and the Deputy Permanent Representative Maj. Gen. Shavendra Silva were also present for the meeting.
HC/IMU_Pix By: Udesh Gunarathna
Pix By: Udesh Gunarathna
