President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasised the transformative role of Buddhism in shaping Sri Lanka into a disciplined and culturally sophisticated nation. He made these remarks during the National Poson Festival at Mihintale, under the theme "May the world be enlightened by the teachings of the Buddha."

The President highlighted the arrival of Arahant Mahinda Thero as a pivotal moment that marked a civilizational turning point, urging the nation to remember the significance of Mihintale during the Poson celebrations. He stressed the importance of preserving and passing on the region's spiritual and cultural heritage to future generations, noting that citizens who remain grounded in their heritage are key to upholding this responsibility.

In line with this, President Dissanayake announced Government initiatives aimed at restoring Anuradhapura’s ancient glory, including support from the Indian government for the city’s reconstruction. He further outlined that Buddhism’s introduction to Sri Lanka over two millennia ago transformed the nation’s educational and social structures, laying the foundation for the country’s cultural evolution.