On this blessed occasion of celebrating the noble birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all Muslim devotees in Sri Lanka and across the world.

The teachings of Prophet Muhammad are not confined merely to a religious framework but stand as a universal set of humanitarian principles dedicated to the well-being of all humankind. In particular, his guidance on social justice, equality, compassion towards the oppressed, and the accountability of rulers is more relevant to contemporary society than ever before.

His noble message was a revolutionary proclamation against the unjust, tribal, and corrupt social order that prevailed at the time. It embodied a noble vision of a society where all individuals could live with dignity, free from exploitation by one another. At this juncture, when we as a nation aspire for social transformation, those ideals of fair governance, free from corruption and inequality, provide us with immense strength and inspiration.

While respectfully recalling the historic contribution made by the Muslim community towards the progress of Sri Lanka, I invite all citizens to unite in building a humane, and prosperous nation, inspired by the noble teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

May this Milad-un-Nabi be a day filled with peace and happiness for all!

Dr. Harini Amarasuriya
Prime Minister
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
5th September 2025

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized the critical importance of child-focused public financing, noting that “Government budgets are among the most powerful instruments for realizing the rights and well-being of children as enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. As responsible governments, we must ensure that public finance serves as a catalyst for advancing the rights of every child and securing their future.”

She made these remarks while addressing the two-day program on “Financing What Matters: Strengthening Public Financial Management for Inclusive Social Outcomes for Children and Families”, a Regional Knowledge Exchange held on 3rd and 4th September at NH Collection in Colombo under the EU-UNICEF Public Finance Facility. The event, implemented by UNICEF and supported by the European Union, served as a forum for dialogue between policymakers responsible for public financial management, budgeting, and expenditure processes across Asia, as well as international partners in this field.

In her address, the Prime Minister further stated:

“Our Government places children at the heart of our responsibilities, and as such, all our policies will reflect the best interests of the child. Being acutely aware of the continuing impact of economic challenges on our people particularly the most vulnerable, including our children the Government of Sri Lanka continues to pursue fiscal consolidation while prioritizing public investments in children and social protection.

In this regard, we have introduced specific child-focused budgetary measures in the 2025 budget. LKR 1 billion has been allocated to provide a monthly allowance of LKR 5,000 to children in institutional or guardian care—of which LKR 2,000 is credited to the child’s minor account, and LKR 3,000 provided to guardians for welfare expenses. LKR 500 million has been dedicated to improving capacity, infrastructure, and human resources in 379 certified child care institutions. A further LKR 1 billion has been proposed as a housing grant to support orphaned children in building stable homes or ensuring long-term security once they marry after the age of 18. In addition, LKR 250 million has been allocated to establish a child-friendly transport system, especially for institutionalized children required to travel to and from courts. LKR 200 million has been committed to establishing a specialized treatment center for children with Neuro-Developmental Disabilities (including autism) at the Lady Ridgeway Children’s Hospital, while LKR 250 million has been allocated to develop a model daycare center supporting inclusive early childhood development for children with NDD.

These allocations, together with historic increases in health and education budgets, reflect our Government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children, strengthening families, and ensuring every child in Sri Lanka has access to education, nutrition, healthcare, and psychosocial support. By embracing innovation, supporting vulnerable populations, and aligning fiscal policy with sustainability, we aim to transform today’s challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience.”

Speaking at the event, Myo Zin Nyunt, Deputy Regional Director of the UNICEF East Asia and Pacific Regional Office, said: “By offering technical advice, training, and space for policy discussion, this Facility is helping countries like Sri Lanka make better budget choices, deliver services more effectively, and involve citizens including young people in decision-making.”

H. E. Carmen Moreno, Ambassador of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of prioritizing social sector spending, noting that without such investment societies will not be able to withstand future challenges.

The event was attended by the UN Resident Coordinator, Marc-André Franche, UNICEF Sri Lanka Representative, Emma Brigham, Dr. Harshana Sooriyapperuma, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, officials from the EU and UNICEF regional offices in Bangkok, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development.

Prime Minister’s Media Division

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that focus is being placed on enhancing the quality of the agricultural sector by utilizing digital and innovative technologies.

She made these remarks while addressing the International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment 2025 (ISAE) organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, held on 2nd September 2025 at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo.

The theme of ISAE 2025, “Driving Innovations in Agricultural Technologies for Climate Action and Sustainability”, encourages multidisciplinary stakeholders in Sri Lanka to explore the opportunities and challenges in global agriculture, sustainability, and the application of emerging technologies.

The symposium aims to facilitate dialogue and collaboration among academics, researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to foster innovative, practical, and systematic solutions that promote climate action and sustainable agricultural practices.

The Prime Minister further stated:

"The Young Graduates Forum, running alongside this symposium, is particularly inspiring. Our future depends on youth who are innovative, knowledgeable, and socially conscious. Investing in their education, skills, and leadership is investing in a climate-resilient future for Sri Lanka and beyond.

Agriculture is not just about producing food. It is about sustaining our communities, our economy, and our planet. By embracing innovation, supporting vulnerable populations, and aligning policy with sustainability, we can transform the challenges posed by climate change into opportunities for growth and resilience."

The event was attended by Member of Parliament Prof. L. M. Abeywickrama, Senior Prof. Buddhi Marambe, Deputy Chairman of Agstar PLC Mr. Indika Gunawardhana, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ruhuna Senior Prof. P. A. Jayantha, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture Senior Prof. G. Y. Jayasinghe, Dr. Awanthi Mahanama, Dr. Anushka Bandara, and students of the University of Ruhuna.

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Mr. Kunle Adeniyi, Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), paid a farewell call on Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, at the Prime Minister’s Office.

During the meeting, Mr. Adeniyi expressed his deep appreciation for the strong cooperation extended by Sri Lanka to UNFPA throughout his tenure. He conveyed particular gratitude to the Prime Minister for her leadership in establishing the Women’s Commission, and commended the professionalism and commitment of Sri Lankan counterparts, noting that they were among the best partners he had worked with in advancing the Fund’s mandate. The Prime Minister extended her appreciation to UNFPA for its longstanding engagement in Sri Lanka and commended the valuable contributions made under Mr. Adeniyi’s leadership.

Senior officials from both sides attended the meeting. The UNFPA delegation included Dr. Dayanath Ranatunga, Assistant Representative, and Mr. Phuntsho Wangyel, Head of Office. The Sri Lankan delegation comprised Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister, Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister, and Ms. Dayani Mendis, Director General of the United Nations and Human Rights Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism.

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The inaugural workshop of a program series organized by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, was held on August 28 at the Western Provincial Council Auditorium in Battaramulla. The objective of this program is to build a culture of corruption-free local government institutions through the enforcement of anti-corruption laws and the promotion of integrity.

The newly appointed local government members participated in this workshop, which is expected to be conducted across the island.

Addressing the participants, the Prime Minister stated,

“We are gathered here today not merely as public officers, but as guardians of trust, entrusted with responsibilities that shape the lives, well-being, and aspirations of our citizens, local government stands at the frontline of public service delivery. It is here, where governance meets the people, that every decision we make and every action we take directly affects the communities we serve, we must lead with integrity, act with transparency, and uphold accountability in every action we take.”

While delivering her speech, the Prime Minister underscored the global cost of corruption, stating:

“Corruption is a universal challenge, In December 2023, the [World Economic Forum] reported that corruption costs the global economy more than $3.5 trillion annually, ending extreme and absolute poverty worldwide by 2030 would require between $70 billion and $325 billion per year. Each act of corruption not only drains public funds but erodes public trust, undermines democracy, and perpetuates inequality.”

The Prime Minister also cautioned against downplaying so-called “petty” corruption,

“When we talk about corruption, it is often categorized as either large-scale or petty However, in my opinion, this distinction can be misleading. Corruption, in any form, has serious consequences for the nation. Even minor acts accumulate, weakening institutions and undermining the public good. Ultimately, corruption at any level diminishes the effectiveness of governance and the nation’s capacity to progress.”

Adding further, the Prime Minister emphasized the values and leadership needed to drive change,

“Integrity is about making the right choice even when no one is watching, resisting undue influence, and refusing shortcuts that compromise the public trust. It is about creating an environment where citizens believe in their government, where public resources are protected, and where every individual can access services without fear of exploitation.”

She also highlighted the importance of collective action, further stating,

“We must rebuild trust and work together, because corruption is not an isolated issue it is connected to every challenge we face in the public sector. To restore integrity and strengthen our nation, we must confront it collectively and decisively. Let today be more than a training session. Let it be a pledge of commitment. Let us collectively resolve that corruption will have no place in our institutions, that integrity will guide every policy, and that public service will be an honour, not an opportunity for personal gain.”

The event was also attended by Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Dr. A.H.M.H. Aberathna, Western Province Governor Haniff Yusuf, Director General of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption R.S.A. Dissanayake, newly appointed local government members, and state officials.

Prime Minister’s Media Division

The awarding ceremony of Mitsubishi Asian Children’s Enikki festa organized by the Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO with the sponsorship of the Mitsubishi Corporation to appreciate the school children who won the “Mitsubishi Asian Children’s Enikki Festa” picture-diary competition was held on August 28 at Temple Trees, with the chair of the Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, who is the Chairperson to the Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO, together with H.E. ISOMATA Akio, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka.

The “Enikki Festa” competition is held with the objective of fostering intercultural empathy among Asian children while nurturing creativity and 300 winners were felicitated from the competition held in Sri Lanka.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister stated that this program embodies a special recognition of imagination, creativity, and friendship among nations and further emphasized that through the children’s creations, Sri Lanka shares its values, traditions, and everyday life with the world while carrying the pride of the nation to the international stage.

The Prime Minister also extended her special appreciation for the assistance extended by the Government of Japan towards Sri Lanka’s development in various fields, including education and technological advancement.

the Prime Minister stated:

Our government is fully committed to an education system that fosters not only academic excellence but also creativity. In our future education policies, equal importance will be given to arts, culture, and vocational skills, alongside science and technological knowledge, with a focus on holistic development. Our goal is not only to nurture successful professionals but also to prepare balanced, creative, and empathetic citizens.

Addressing the ceremony, H.E. ISOMATA Akio, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, congratulated the winning children and commended the commitment of the Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO in organizing this competition. He also highlighted the importance of the competition in enabling children to learn about cultural values from different countries.

The event was also attended by Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary-General of the Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO Prof. Prabath Jayasinghe, Deputy Secretary Nalaka Ratnayake, along with invited guests, parents, and school children.

Prime Minister’s Media Division