– President Says Delivering Keynote Address at 20th United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations

President Anura Kumara Disanayake extended an appeal to the global community to draw upon the illumination of Buddhist philosophy in building a world where the fires of war are extinguished and peace, development and mutual respect prevail among all nations and peoples.

President Disanayake made this statement today (06) while delivering the keynote address at the 20th United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations, which commenced in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Vesak celebrations will be held this year under the theme “Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development.” The event, held from May 6 to 8, will bring together over 2,800 participants, including high-level delegates from Buddhist countries such as Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Laos and Cambodia, international delegates from 85 countries and territories.

In his address, President Disanayake highlighted the enduring relevance of Buddhist philosophy in fostering global peace and reconciliation. He emphasised that the teachings of the Buddha offer a path to extinguishing the flames of war and building a world imbued with compassion, tolerance and mutual respect. The President underscored the importance of embracing the Four Brahma Viharas—loving-kindness (metta), compassion (karuna), empathetic joy (mudita) and equanimity (upekkha)—as guiding principles for humanity to overcome suffering and conflict.

President Disanayake expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the celebrations hosted by Vietnam, a nation that has demonstrated remarkable resilience and progress in the aftermath of war. He commended Vietnam’s commitment to peace and its role in promoting Buddhist values on the international stage.

Following is the full speech delivered by President Disanayake;

I am deeply honoured to deliver the keynote address at the United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations, held in a country that is rapidly and admirably rising, driven by tireless effort, extraordinary determination, focused commitment, strategic vision and remarkable outcomes.

Vietnam is a land that, despite centuries of painful experiences and countless struggles, has courageously forged a path forward and stood tall. We hold immense pride in the victories your nation has achieved, having once been subjected to some of the most brutal injustices in history, including the use of devastating chemical weapons. It is with deep respect that I choose to refer to your nation as the ‘Land of Determination’.

In a few days, we will mark the Sambudu Themagula, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment and passing away of Buddha. It is a matter of great pride that Vietnam has been selected as the host of the United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations in conjunction with this sacred event.

In 1999, a proposal was submitted at the United Nations General Assembly to officially recognise Vesak Day as an international observance. This proposal was presented by the late Lakshman Kadirgamar, the former Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka. By the year 2000, the United Nations officially declared Vesak Day an internationally recognised observance. Today, we gratefully remember both the Buddhist and non-Buddhist communities who supported this noble initiative.

In a strong society, power is shared through equality. Without equality, we build not peace, but a world of war. Throughout 2,500 years of Buddhist history, the message of equality preached by Gautama Buddha has been clearly articulated. His teachings on moderation and restraint have now become a practical reality at the global level. Vietnam itself stands as a living testament to this principle of equality. Fittingly, the theme of this year’s United Nations Day of Vesak is also ‘Equality’.

Even as we speak, violations against human dignity are occurring in parts of the world. Thousands of weapons are directed at humanity. Innocent children, who know nothing of war, are caught in its crossfire and suffer in vast numbers. As a result, women lose their husbands, parents lose their children and children lose their parents. Viewed through this lens, it becomes evident that war brings not triumph, but the destruction of human civilisation. What remains for many after war is only sorrow and suffering. As a nation that endured the agony of three decades of war, we too know this pain. Such suffering can only be prevented through peace and restraint. Until that realisation is reached, what humanity inherits will be nothing but sorrow and pain.

The value of acting with peace and restraint during times such as these was insightfully proclaimed by Gautama Buddha over 2,500 years ago. As Sri Lankans, we have deeply embraced these values. Our country has long enjoyed strong bonds among parents and children, relatives and friends, as well as teachers and students. In our culture, offering one’s blood to save another’s life is regarded as a noble act of generosity. I am not aware of any other country where the donation of blood is considered a form of ‘dāna’ (giving) in this way. Moreover, organ donation, including eye donation is also practised by our people.

In this way, our country has closely internalised the Buddhist concept of dāna (giving). For over 2,500 uninterrupted years, the Buddha Dhamma has been rooted in the principle of nonviolence. The message of the Dhamma delivered by the Buddha in the “Dhamsak Pevathum Sutra” Sermon continues to resonate with relevance and expand across the globe today. The Buddha has shown us a path, one that is vastly different from the road that leads to the destruction of human civilisation.

As we walk the path the Buddha taught, we are guided to fight not with weapons, but against the inner enemies of anger, jealousy, hatred, aversion, and delusion. The Dhamma offers powerful means—through the cultivation of loving-kindness (mettā), compassion (karuṇā), sympathetic joy (muditā), and equanimity (upekkhā)—to combat these defilements.
This spiritual arsenal, rooted in mindfulness and compassion, is far stronger than any weapon of mass destruction. The Dhamma taught by the Buddha is aimed at overcoming the enemies within. Choosing the path of war leads only to sorrow, tears and profound suffering. But by choosing the path of peace, one comes to truly understand the Dhamma.

We can also learn how deeply the Dhamma can influence a life by looking at the reign of Emperor Ashoka. His rule became known not for the sound of war drums, but for the reverberation of the Dhamma. Those once enthralled by the thrill of war began to experience the joy of loving-kindness. On one occasion, when a conflict arose between the Sakyans over water from the Rohini River, the Buddha himself travelled to Kapilavatthu to demonstrate the greater value of peace over war. Time and again, the Dhamma has emphasised the supremacy of peace.

In today’s world, which has become a global village, the teachings of the Dhamma on compassion, peacefulness and patience, make a profound contribution to our understanding and way of life. The Buddha, as a great teacher, championed both restraint and freedom of expression, encouraging individuals to question his teachings repeatedly in order to realise the Dhamma with clarity and wisdom.
In the truest sense of the word, the Dhamma is one that must be realised through personal insight. Following this path, Buddhist monks today carry the message of equality across the world. This message contains no seeds of conflict, no incitement to violence, no shedding of blood, nor any form of punishment. It is the path of peace.

Through moral education, the Dhamma teaches us to respect one another and that hatred does not cease by hatred, but only through non-hatred. The Buddha was the first teacher to preach the message of global peace. His instruction was for each individual to place trust in themselves. In this way, Buddhist philosophy offers a deep and profound guide to living.
The Buddha delivered teachings on Buddhist resources and restraint in the Sigālovada Sutta. This Sutta outlines how acquired resources should be utilised, specifying that one part is for consumption, two parts are for strengthening the economy and another portion is set aside for use during unexpected situations.

In addition, the Buddha provided guidance on governance. He instructed rulers to protect human rights by suppressing crime, fostering economic prosperity and leading the country in accordance with moral and spiritual principles. The Buddha’s political philosophy offers a framework for rulers that emphasizes governance based on virtuous policies.

His message was clear: “When the ruler, the first citizen of the country, governs wisely, the people will live in peace and prosperity.” This is a key aspect of the Dhamma taught by the Buddha.

The Buddha’s teachings on governance also include many valuable concepts, particularly within the context of the ten royal virtues (Dasa Rāja Dharmas). These principles guide the ethical and moral conduct of a ruler, encouraging peace and equality. For this reason, I firmly believe that the entirety of the Buddha’s Dhamma conveys a message of peace and equality, central to its core teachings. The Buddha has also taught that all things are impermanent.

One of the well-known verses that summarises the teachings of all the Buddhas is as follows:

“Sabba pāpassa akaraṇaṃ – Kusalassa upasampadā
Sacchitapariyodapanaṃ – Etam Buddhāna Sāsanaṃ”

The simple meaning of this verse is: “Refrain from all evil, cultivate good and purify the mind.” This is the essence of the teachings given by all the Buddhas.

Sri Lanka and Vietnam have maintained close and mutually beneficial relations for centuries. In recent times, these ties have grown even stronger. Just yesterday, I had the privilege of unveiling a unique Bodhi enclosure at the Bai Ding Pagoda in Vietnam. This enclosure houses a sapling of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, which was gifted to Vietnam by Sri Lanka in 2023.

As followers of the Buddha’s Dhamma, we strive for a world free from the fires of war, a world filled with peace, love, and compassion. I call upon all people to embrace the teachings of the Buddha and the Buddhist philosophy, fostering peace, development and mutual respect among all nations and peoples.

Let us commemorate the 139th International Workers’ Day in a year marked by progress and under a government that represents the will of the people, putting an end to a painful chapter in history where the working class endured hardship, sacrifice, and struggle marked by blood and sweat.

Marking a historic turning point, we celebrate the May Day for this year under a people's government that rises against five years of oppression by the ruling class, overthrowing corrupted politics.

Amidst nepotism, and political favoritism that subjected the working force to injustice, year 2024 marks a year of courageous decisions, a determined effort to rebuild a nation that was dragged into an abyss, overturning the entire political culture.

As a people's government, recognizing the true needs of the people, we are making great efforts to guide the distorted economic, political, social, cultural, and moral frameworks of the country back onto a natural path.

Although it is not possible to change the deeply rooted corruption and injustices of this country overnight, the government is systematically restructuring and implementing structural reforms to receive the needs of the people.

A systematic program has been set up to strengthen the economic forces of all working people, including those in the state, private, business, and labor sectors, while also preparing to empower the farming community, who are taking the lead in making the country self-sufficient in food.

This is a time when we must dedicate ourselves and unite to ensuring the security, independence, and rights of the people, while building a more stable and trustworthy future.

Let us work together, with unity and determination, to safeguard hard-won rights and rebuild the nation.

Harini Amarasuriya,
Prime Minister,
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

On May 1st, 1886, during a protest in Haymarket Square, Chicago, workers who demanded an eight-hour workday, was violently confronted with gunfire. To pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in that fight, the Second International, convened in 1889, proclaimed May 1st as International Workers’ Day, which has been observed annually ever since.

This year, the working people of Sri Lanka, together with the general public, commemorate International Workers’ Day at a time when our nation and society are undergoing a profound and progressive transformation under a people-oriented governance bringing an end to a corrupt and elitist political system that has existed for 76 years, upheld by a rotating power structure dominated by a select few influential families across generations. At the recent presidential and parliamentary elections, people from all corners of Sri Lanka, regardless of ethnicity or religion, united to bring about a turning point in our nation’s politics. Responding to the people’s aspirations, we of the National People’s Power currently focused on developing a nation that is experiencing extensive economic, social and political transformation.

We have already succeeded in initiating a stable recovery of an economy that was dragged to the depths by corrupt and elitist system. The evident signs of advancement are now apparent to everyone. In our very first national budget, we made historic moves significantly increasing the minimum basic salary of public servants and extensive benefits for various segments of society, including farmers, fishing community, youth, women, students, producers, small-scale entrepreneurs and professionals alike. We are diligently addressing the persistent issues encountered by plantation workers and striving to guarantee their civil rights.

We recognize the necessity for a new phase in the rights we possess, aligned with the continuously evolving productive forces. Contemporary society demands a new era in human rights that encompasses digital access, environmental rights and other emerging rights that were not anticipated in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These changes, along with evolving political frameworks and the worldwide call for peace, require a revised and comprehensive global declaration of human rights. As we commemorate this International Workers’ Day, we must remain sensitive to these needs and dedicated to addressing them.

In the face of global geopolitical shifts and growing challenges, it is the working people of Sri Lanka who continue to shoulder the burden of rebuilding our economy. As we restore and reform an economy devastated by decades of corrupt politics, I warmly invite our beloved working people to join hands in solidarity, to rise with determination and to strive towards building “a beautiful life and a thriving nation” for everyone. On this occasion, I offer my heartfelt best wishes for a meaningful International Workers’ Day one that reaffirms the rights and dignity of all working people.

The Government has decided to hold the State Vesak Festival 2025 at the Nuwara Eliya International Buddhist Center Temple, under the theme “Bhajetha Miththe Kalyane, Bhajetha Purisuththame” (Let’s associate with noble friends of good qualities). In line with this celebration, the period from May 10 to 16, 2025, has been officially declared as Vesak Week, said Cabinet spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa.

He further said that, “Based on the guidance of the Most Ven. Mahanayaka Thera and the Old Island Shasanarakshaka Mandalaya, it has been deemed appropriate to host the State Vesak Festival for 2025 at the Nuwara Eliya International Buddhist Center in collaboration with the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs; the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government and the Department of Buddhist Affairs.”

Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved a joint proposal submitted by the Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government and the Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs to hold the State Vesak Festival 2025 centered at the Nuwara Eliya International Buddhist Center Temple, declare May 10 to 16 as Vesak Week in 2025, and organise and implement various Buddhist programmes during that period.

The annual “Asidisi Media Scholarship Programme” aimed at improving the professionalism of the Sri Lankan journalists has been organized this year too by the Ministry of Health and Mass Media.

Accordingly, applications have been called for “Asidisi Media Scholarship Programme 2025” and the deadline is 23^rd May 2025.

The journalist between the age of 18-55 who are employed in recognized Media institutions having completed three years of service on permanent or part time basis, freelance journalists, provincial journalists, web Journalists and media technicians are eligible for applying to this Scholarship programme. Moreover, the intended course should directly be related to the field of mass media and the applicants should possess the media identity issued for the Journalists by the Department of Information for the year 2025.

The journalists can be benefited by this scheme of scholarships twice. After the first Scholarship is awarded, they can once again apply for the second opportunity in five years after successful completion of the course.

Under this Scholarship Programme, two hundred thousand rupees (Rs.200,000.00) would be offered for a graduate or postgraduate programme and one hundred thousand rupees (Rs.100,000.00) would be offered for a long term or short term certificate course conduced by recognized institutions. The journalists who are eligible for this Scholarship Programme will receive 50% of the total course fee at the beginning of the course as the 1^st installment, next 25% as the 2^nd installment and the balance when submitting the certificate after successful completion of the course.

The beneficiaries will be selected after an interview conducted by a committee nominated by the Secretary, Ministry of Health and Mass Media.

All applications for this purpose must be submitted on or before 23^rd May 2025 to the Director (Media), Ministry of Health and Media, No. 163, "Asidisi Medira," Kirulapone Mawatha, Polhengoda, Colombo 05. Applications may be sent either via registered post or submitted online by scanning the QR code available on the official website of the ministry: www.media.gov.lk

Further details of "Asidisi Media Scholarship Programme 2025" can be obtained by contacting 0112513645 / 0112514632 and the application can be downloaded by visiting the website (http://www.media.gov.lk)

The “Siri Dalada Wandanawa”, the special exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which allows the public to venerate and pay their respects to the Sacred Tooth Relic, commenced today (18) after 16 years, with the participation of President Anura Kumara Disanayake.

Marking the inauguration ceremony, the President placed first floral tribute to the Sacred Tooth Relic and with the President paying homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic, the “Siri Dalada Wandanawa” officially commenced, allowing the devoted public to pay their respects to the Sacred Tooth Relic.

At the request of the President, the “Siri Dalada Wandanawa” will be held under the guidance of the Chief Prelates of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters, and under the direction of the Diyawadana Nilame of the historic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. The event will continue for 10 days, from today until April 27.

A large number of devotees from all over the country arrived at the Temple of the Tooth Relic today (18) to pay their homage. Today, the public will have the opportunity to venerate the Sacred Tooth Relic until 5:00 p.m. From tomorrow (19) onwards, the public will be allowed to worship daily from 12 noon to 5:00 p.m.

The event was also graced by Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Hiniduma Sunil Senevi along with other Ministers and Ambassadors and High Commissioners representing Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nepal, the Netherlands, India, Myanmar, Palestine, France, New Zealand, Cuba, Egypt, Japan, the United Kingdom, Thailand, Canada and South Korea, Public officials, Members of the security forces and a large number of local and foreign devotees were also present.

All arrangements are in place for the Special Exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha at the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy begins tomorrow. The Exposition, the first in 16 years, will be held till April 27.

The Exposition will be open to the public on Friday, April 18 (a public holiday) from 3 pm. to 5.30 pm., and from April 19 to 27, daily from 12 pm. to 5.30 p.m. The public will be admitted from three queues, two from around the Nuwara Wewa and one from D. S. Senanayake Veediya.

Asgiri Deputy Registrar Ven. Narampanawe Ananda Nayaka Thera and Malwathu Deputy Registrar Ven. Mahawela Rathanapala Nayaka Thera requested Buddhists to make use of this rare opportunity.

They said food would be provided to the people in the queues at night. Parallel to the event, the public will be educated on the history of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the traditional Poojas associated with it.

Monks would be allocated a special gate to enter the Sri Dalada Maligawa premises, adding that all of them would be provided with alms if they come before noon.

Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Dr.Hiniduma Sunil Senevi said a large crowd is expected at the sacred veneration of the Tooth Relic of the Buddha that has been organised on a request of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Kandy Additional District Secretary E.R.L.B.Etampawala said 31 public institutions will provide their services for the event, including the Presidential Secretariat and Tri-Forces personnel.

“Clean drinking water, toilet facilities, waste disposal bins, phone charging facilities, first-aid, special lighting and vehicle parking facilities have been arranged in the area for the convenience of the devotees. Special public transport services will be provided to and from Kandy and within the Kandy city limits, and if those with special needs require staying for the night, they can go to either Keppetipola or Vivekananda Colleges in Kandy,” he said.

The public is requested to avoid unnecessary baggage and switch off their mobile phones at the point of the final security check. Three counters have been arranged for the public to keep their bags and footwear.

Kandy Municipal Council Commissioner Indika Kumari Abeysinghe said that all dansals and street vendors in the area are being registered. The street vendors are issued an identity card with a QR code and any unregistered street vendor will be removed by the Police.

Police Superintendent D.C.D.Ilangakoon said a special traffic plan and security arrangements would be in place throughout the event. He urged those travelling to Kandy for other purposes during this period to be aware of the traffic plans and restrictions, which will be published in all newspapers and over TV channels.

Let us step into the New Year with renewed hope and a vision, as we continue to work together toward “a prosperous country and a beautiful life.”

I extend my heartfelt wishes to the Sinhala and Tamil people of Sri Lanka, who celebrate the New Year in unity and generosity.

This New Year dawns at a moment when a new change is essential in every aspect of our lives. This traditional festivity reminds us to bring about positive change that is deep rooted in our culture and values, and move forward together in unity.

In recent years, the economic crisis made even the thought of celebrating the New Year a painful experience for many. However, the courageous efforts of the people to break free from a cycle of corruption and fraud, has led the path for the emergence of a new beginning.

Thus, the 2025 New Year marks a significant turning point. It is a year where communities from the North, South, East, and West unite and continue to work together under democratic principles to build a better future. In the upcoming month of May, the people’s aspirations will once again bear fruit.

At this moment when a new chapter begins with the New Year, I urge every citizen to act with respect, peace, and compassion in community. Let us commit ourselves to move forward with dedication, trust, and resilience to achieve success and progress in the coming year.

To all Sri Lankans celebrating Sinhala and Tamil New Year, I wish the nation is blessed with the strength, unity, and new energy needed for meaningful transformation and a prosperous tomorrow.
Wishing you all a very Happy New Year!

Dr. Harini Amarasuriya
Prime Minister
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
14th April 2025

As we celebrate the Sinhala and Tamil New Year this year, a festival that symbolises the hope of both physical and spiritual renewal, our nation finds itself at a defining moment, achieving significant victories while resolutely striving towards the realisation of a better and more prosperous future.

It is with profound joy and gratitude that I reflect upon the efforts undertaken by the National People’s Power government over the past months to lift our nation from adversity and steer it towards economic, social and political advancement. The successes we have thus far achieved rightfully belong to the people of this country, whose steadfast trust, as expressed in the most recent Presidential and General Elections, has been the driving force behind this transformative journey.

As a responsible government, we possess the strength and determination to further deepen our commitment to the nation, even amidst formidable challenges. We are implementing well-considered plans to address the multifaceted challenges confronting our country, both in terms of national development and within the broader geopolitical landscape.

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year traditions beautifully reflect the harmony between humanity and nature, bearing witness to the deep-rooted history of coexistence between our Sinhala and Tamil communities. While contemporary society may be burdened by various divisions, occasions such as the New Year provide a timely reminder of the enduring values of unity, harmony and peaceful coexistence. It is our solemn responsibility, particularly at this time of renewal, to nurture those values within ourselves and to foster a more compassionate and ethical society.

Moreover, the rituals associated with the sun’s transition are underpinned by the universal aspiration to create a renewed individual, one free from outdated thoughts and attitudes. The New Year, therefore, offers us an invaluable opportunity to embrace renewal in our own lives.

As we welcome this New Year, I call upon all of you to come together with renewed strength, unity and goodwill. Let us collectively work towards a common purpose, supporting the government’s vision for economic, social and political transformation and thereby ensuring enduring progress and prosperity for our country and all its people.

May this New Year bring you and your loved ones peace, happiness, renewed hope and abundant prosperity in your journey towards ‘A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life”.
Warmest wishes for a Happy Sinhala and Tamil New Year!

Anura Kumara Disanayake
President
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
14th April 2025

1. Signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding between the South Asian Center for Teacher Development, UNESCO South Asian Regional Office, and Indira Gandhi National Open University.

The Asian Center for Teacher Development was established as an independent and self-financing institute. The UNESCO Executive Board has recommended promoting the functions of that institute and establishing partnerships with the other institutes and organizations of the region for updating the functions that should be performed by the said institute. Accordingly, it has been proposed to sign a tripartite agreement between the South Asian Center for Teacher Development, UNESCO South Asian Regional Office, and Indira Gandhi National Open University with the objective of developing regional cooperation and strengthening the national and regional action plan, including the targets stipulated in the itinerary on 2030 sustainable development through the introduction of new training programs on quality media and information literacy. The clearance of the Attorney General has been received for the proposed draft memorandum of understanding. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal presented by Hon. the Prime Minister in her capacity as Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Professional Education, to sign the said tripartite memorandum of understanding.

2. Submission of the report to the parliament on the deviation of the headline inflation from the inflation targets stipulated in the agreement on monetary policy framework in the third and fourth quarters of the year 2024.

As per the agreement on the monetary policy framework signed on 03-10-2023 between the Hon. the Minister of Finance and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka under Section 26(1) of the Sri Lanka Central Bank Act No. 16 of 2023, the responsibility of maintaining the quarterly headline inflation at the level of 5% that is measured by the Colombo Consumer Index compiled by the Department of Census and Statistics has been laid on the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.  As per Section 26(5) of the Sri Lanka Central Bank Act No. 16 of 2023, in case the Central Bank of Sri Lanka has failed to achieve the said inflation target in 02 consecutive quarters, the Board of the monetary policy framework of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka should submit a report in that respect to the Parliament through the Minister in charge of the subject of Finance. Further, it should be possible to make this report available to the public as well. The quarterly average of the headline inflation for the third and fourth quarters of the year 2024, has been 0.8% and -1.5%, respectively based on the Colombo Consumer Price Index and the said percentage has been 2% lower than the inflation target for two consecutive quarters. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal presented by His Excellency, the President, in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, to table the report on the deviation of the headline inflation that has been submitted to the Minister in charge of the subject of finance as per Section 26(5) of the Sri Lanka Central Bank Act.

3. Selection of Investors for the development of lands owned to the Urban Development Authority

It has been previously decided by the Cabinet of Ministers that the proper procurement procedure should be followed for the selection of suitable investors in the disposal of long-term leases for the implementation of land development projects belonging to the Urban Development Authority. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing for the selection of suitable investors in the disposal of long-term leases based on the assessment of the Government Appraiser, in compliance with the planning regulations of the Urban Development Authority, for the following portions of land that were assigned to the Urban Development Authority under Section 6(1) of the Government Land Ordinance.

• To dispose of 42.03 perches, 20.28 perches, and 20.72 perches, 03 portions of land under a 50-year long-term lease basis that could be disposed of after allocation of required lands for the proposed urban development out of the lands acquired for the Sellakatharagama urban development activities.

• To dispose of 03 acres—2 roods—24.59 perchas in extent from the land Dematagoda (537 watta) for 99 years.  

4. Awarding the contract to purchase 05 shipment of 92 Unl petrol during the period 15-04-2025 to 14-10-2025

ids have been called by the Petroleum Corporation of Sri Lanka from the registered suppliers to purchase 05 shipments of 92 Unl barrols of 300,000 + /-5% petrol for the period of 6 months from 15-04-2025 to 14-10-2025. 07 suppliers have submitted their bids for that purpose. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Power and Energy to award the said procurement to the substantially the lowest responsive bidder, M/s Vitol Asia Pte. Ltd. in Singapore, based on the recommendations of the Standing Procurement Committee and the Special Standing Procurement Committee appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers.

5. The procurement to purchase pre-printed polycarbonate cards for the issuance of national Identity Cards

The Department of Registration of Persons started using smart cards for the issuance of national identity cards in the year 2017. Electronic National Identity Cards should be issued to every person who has completed 15 years of age under the new procedure of the Electronic National Identity Card Project (e-NIC) that is due to be implemented in the future. It has been recognized that there is a requirement of 17 million cards for the reregistration of Sri Lankan persons and issuance of new identity cards. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal presented by His Excellency, the President, in his capacity as the Minister of Digital Economy, to purchase 15 million polycarbonate cards following the procurement procedure of international competitive bidding for the fulfillment of said requirement.

06.    Procurement to supply 03 million doses of inactive 0.5 ml / 1 ml of Rabies injections (human use)

International competitive bids have bee invited under the procurement for supply of 03 million doses of inactive 0.5 ml / 1 ml of Rabies injections which is utilized for treating to prevent Rabies. Five (05) bids have been forwarded in this connection. Based on the recommendations of the higher level standing procurement committee, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the resolution furnished by the Minister of Health and Mass Media to award the relevant procurement to M/s Gulf Pharma (Pvt.) Ltd. (Manufacturer: M/s Chiron Behring Vaccine (Pvt.) Ltd., India), who has submitted the minimum substantial responsive bid to an amount of rupees 412.80 million.

07.    Procurement to supply 70,000 vials of 5 – 6 grams of Human Imunoglobin BP for intracranial usage.

International competitive bids have bee invited under the procurement for supply of 70,000 vials of 5 – 6 grams of Human Imunoglobin BP for intracranial usage for treating patients with immunity deficiency. Six (06) bids have been forwards in this connection. Based on the recommendations of the higher level standing procurement committee, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the resolution furnished by the Minister of Health and Mass Media to award the relevant procurement to M/s Reliance Life Sciences (Pvt.) Ltd. of India who has submitted the minimum substantial responsive bid to an amount of United States Dollars 6.86 million.

08.    Submission of gazette notifications for the concurrence of the Parliament.

The Cabinet of Ministers approved the resolution furnished by His Excellency the President, in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to submit the following notification / order / rule published in the government gazette notification to the Parliament for its concurrence:

• Notification on the revision of tax limit of luxury on moor vehicles under the Finance Act No. 35 of 2018 published in the extraordinary gazette notification No. 2421 / 41 dated 31.01.2025.

• Rule issued under the Production Levy (Special Provisions) Act No. 13 of 1989 on revision of production levy rate for vehicles operated with electricity published in the extraordinary gazette notification No. 2421 / 42 dated 31.01.2025

• Order issued under the Finance Act No. 25 of 2003 on extension of the period on which the 50% relief is active which is given to the deviation levy published in the extraordinary gazette notification No. 2421 / 30 dated 31.01.2025

09.    Obtaining approval from the new Cabinet of Ministers for the legal draft to safeguard the rights of new plant species.

Although there are legal provisions for the right to publish, technical planning, right of patent, trademarks and enterprises etc, in the Intellectual Property Act No. 36 of 2003, there are no provisions for securing the rights of plant species (relevant to breeders, researchers and farmers). In addition, no patents can be issued for flora and fauna according to the provisions of the intellectual rights act. Therefore, approval of the Cabinet of Ministers was granted at their meeting held on 22.05.2024 to introduce a new act for securing the rights of plant species. Wherefore, the Legal Draftsman has pointed out that policy approval of the new Cabinet of Ministers should be taken to complete the drafting of the new flora species rights securing act. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers granted approval to the proposals submitted by the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation to issue approval of the Cabinet of Ministers for the preparation of the said draft bill.

10.    Amendment of the National Minimum Wage of Workers Act No. 3 of 2016.

Parallel to increase of salaries of the public officers by the budget proposals 2025, it has been proposed to increase salaries of private sector employees as well. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers granted approval to the proposal submitted by the Minister of Labour to revise the national minimum monthly salary and national minimum daily wage and follow other legal actions as follows:

• To raise the minimum national monthly salary by rupees 9,500/- from rupees 17,500/- to rupees 27,000/- with effect from 01.04.2025

• To raise the minimum national monthly salary by rupees 380/- from rupees 700/- to rupees 1,080/- with effect from 01.04.2025

• To raise the minimum national monthly salary by rupees 3,000/- from rupees 27,000/- to rupees 30,000/- with effect from 01.01.2026

• To raise the minimum national monthly salary by rupees 120/- from rupees 1,080 /- to rupees 1,200/- with effect from 01.01.2026

11.   Draft bill to establish the Chartered Institute of Media Professionals – Sri Lanka

Establishment of Chartered Institute of Media Professionals of Sri Lanka has been recognized in order to accomplish the requirement of a training institute for carrying out relevant studies with the objective of presenting media intellects fortified with skills for the uplifting quality and standards of media society of this country while creating chartered professional journalists. Accordingly, approval of the Cabinet of Ministers was granted at their meeting held on 15.08.2022 to prepare a draft bill so that the institution can be passed in the Parliament as an act passed in the Parliament. The Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal furnished by the Minister of Health and Mass Media to grant policy approval of the current Cabinet of Ministers for completion of formulating the said draft bill.

12.   Amendment of Community Based Correction Act No. 46 of 1999

Approval of the Cabinet of Ministers has been granted at their meeting held on 24.01.2024 to amend the Community Based Correction Act No. 46 of 1999. Accordingly, the Attorney General has submitted several proposals for amendments for the draft bill prepared by the Legal Draftsman. Therefore, the Cabinet of Ministers has granted their approval to the proposal furnished by the Minister of Justice and National Integrity to instruct the Legal Draftsman to prepare the final draft bill for the amendment of the Community Based Correction Act including those proposed amendments.

13.   Amendment of the National Archives Law No. 48 of 1973

Approval of the Cabinet of Ministers was granted on 21.11.2022 at their meeting to appoint an intellects committee comprised of experts on the subjects of document management, document conservation and digital document management to submit appropriate recommendations for the amendment of the National Archives Law No. 48 of 1973. The intellects’ committee, after considering the views of the public as well as other instructions, has drafted a national policy on archiving and report management. In addition, examining the National Archives Law No. 48 of 1973 and the National Archives Act No. 30 of 1981, a fundamental draft as well have been prepared to take as a basis for preparation of a National Archives and Document Management draft bill. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval to the proposal submitted by the Minister of Buddha Shasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs to pass the National policy on Archives and Document Management, and instruct the Legal Draftsman to formulate a draft bill to introduce the National Archives and Document Management Act examining the National Archives Law No. 48 of 1973 and the National Archives Act No. 30 of 1981.

14.    Recruitment of 30,000 gradates and youth to fill essential vacancies in the government service.

The policy of the new government is to make recruitments to the state sector without political interferences and with skills and qualifications. Considering the huge swell of the number of unemployed graduates and youth and, the state financial void existing with the government, approval of the Parliament has been granted to the budget proposal furnished by His Excellency the President in his capacity of the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to allocate provisions of rupees 10 billion from the budget 2025 for filling 30,000 essential vacancies in the state service. An officials’ committee chaired by the Secretary to the Prime Minister has been appointed to present recommendations to make essential recruitments, by reviewing staffs of various institutions in the state sector once again. Based on the recommendations furnished by the said Committee, approval of the Cabinet of Ministers have been granted for 18,853 new recruitments to the state service by now. Accordingly, considering a proposal furnished by the Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Governments, the Cabinet of Ministers has decided that immediate actions should be taken by the relevant Ministry to make recruitments followed by calling applications as per the recruitment schemes prescribed under “the Programme to Recruit 30,000 Unemployed Graduates and Youth to the Government Service Proposed by the Budget 2025”.

15.    Submission of the Report on the Annual Economic Analysis of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 to the Parliament.

As per section 80 (3) of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act No. 16 of 2023, the Minister in – charge of the subject of Finance shall submit a report on economic situation prevailed within the particular financial year, within four months after completion of each financial year. Accordingly, the report in relation to the financial review of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 has been submitted to the President. The report has envisaged macro economic trends of Sri Lanka, situation of the financial system, as well as the major developments and a review of the policies of Central Bank of Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal forwarded by His Excellency the President in his office as the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to submit the Report on the Annual Economic Analysis of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 to the Parliament.

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