The President urged the people to consider the qualities and capabilities of candidates before voting. Only a set of candidates, who are capable of working for the country, while protecting the dignity of Parliament, should be elected," he said.

"Accordingly, knowledge, ability, academic qualifications, prior experience and so on of a candidate should be evaluated at the election," he noted.

The President was speaking at a ceremony to launch a book "A Sri Lankan voice in the global arena"and its English translation authored by Finance State Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe at the BMICH yesterday.

The book "A Sri Lankan voice in the global arena" contains a selection of speeches of Minister Samarasinghe delivered at several international for a, including the UN Human Right Council in Geneva.

The President pointed out that politicians themselves ruin their image due to the failure of fulfilling their due duties and responsibilities, which have to be carried out for the people and the country. "Considering this situation, not only politicians, but, also state officials should always dedicate themselves to carrying out an exemplary service," the President said.

"Once the politicians and state officials appointed to a certain post, they should fulfill the responsibilities, which have been entrusted to them by the people," the President said.

While appreciating the service rendered by Minister Samarasinghe, especially in building the image of the country abroad, the President wished all success to his future endeavors.

The first copy of the book was handed over to the President Sirisena by Minister Samarasinghe.