The President made these remarks at a ceremony to offer a water filter which has the capacity of filtering 24000 liters per day for kidney patients at Sudarshanarama Temple in Thalakolawewa, Medirigiriya yesterday (Sep. 03).

He said a comprehensive national program is being carried out curb and prevent kidney diseases and for the welfare of kidney patients. He also pointed out that kidney disease has been spread not only in North-Central Province, but also in the areas of two thirds of areas in Sri Lanka.

President Sirisena stated that conclusion of the reports on the spread of kidney disease during past 20 years mentioned about the importance of providing purified water and giving instructions for the farmers to stop the use of harmful pesticides in agricultural activities.

He said he would obtain the approval from the new Cabinet next week for the five-year plan drafted to assist the villages with financial difficulties in Polonnaruwa District.

He stated that substantial funding facilities from foreign countries will be received for the development work of Sri Lanka as no country in world is hostile towards this government.

After opening this purifying unit amidst pirith chanting by Maha Sanga, the President offered purified water to several Bhikkus.

Ven. Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thero presented a souvenir to the President for his birthday. Sri Lanka Civil Defence Force presented five wheelchairs to disabled persons in Medirigiriya to mark the President’s birthday. Chief Incumbent of Sri Ananda Vidya Nikethana in Mahathalakolawewa, Ven. Mederapitiye Sumangala Thero, Director General of Civil Defence Department Mr. Chandraratne Pallegama, Chief Minister of North-Central Province Peshala Jayaratne and Member of Parliament Siripala Gamlath also were present at this occasion.