Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya emphasized that the Government’s development agenda is rooted in sustainability and human dignity, aiming to uplift every community and ensure progress reaches all corners of the country.
She made these remarks during the United Nations Day 2025 commemoration, held under the global theme “Our UN”, marking the 80th anniversary of the UN and 70 years of partnership between Sri Lanka and the organization. The national event took place on 23 October 2025 at the UN Headquarters in Colombo, attended by UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche and members of the UN Country Team.
The Prime Minister commended the UN for eight decades of global service and seven decades of cooperation with Sri Lanka, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to the principles of the UN Charter, peace, human rights, and sustainable development. She highlighted the continued importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges.
“Eighty years ago, the world united to prevent war, protect human rights, and promote social progress. These founding ideals remain as relevant today as ever,” she said.
Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s partnership with the UN since 1955, she noted the country’s active role in peacekeeping, diplomacy, and sustainable development, with over 25,000 Sri Lankans serving in UN Peacekeeping Missions since 1958.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the Government’s ongoing national initiatives aligned with UN principles, including:
- Praja Shakthi National Programme to eradicate poverty
- Digital Sri Lanka to modernize public services and promote digital inclusion
- Clean Sri Lanka for environmental, social, and ethical transformation
PM Amarasuriya expressed appreciation for the UN Country Team’s support through the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), noting contributions in governance, poverty reduction, climate resilience, and post-conflict recovery.
The event was attended by UN officials, diplomatic representatives, and distinguished dignitaries.
