President Anura Kumara Dissanayake called for expanding women’s entrepreneurship in the digital and green economy in a message marking International Women’s Day.

The President noted that women make up 52% of the population of Sri Lanka and contribute significantly to sectors including garments, plantations, health, education and services.

He stated the government is working to strengthen gender equality, protect women’s rights and address violence and discrimination.

Dissanayake also noted that the current Parliament of Sri Lanka includes the highest number of female MPs in the country’s history.