• Prez notes need for political solutions for the displaced and the missing 

President and Minister of National Policies Ranil Wickremesinghe said that the goal is to address all war-related issues by next year (2025), including providing political solutions for displaced and missing persons.

During his address at the 125th anniversary ceremony of the Colombo Young Men’s Buddhist Association on 7 January, the President emphasised that engaging with the youth is crucial as their input, plans and ideas are essential for nation building.

“The emphasis now is on ensuring the safe export of our food crops through sustainable agricultural practices, requiring concerted efforts. We have submitted a comprehensive report on financial control in alignment with the International Monetary Fund agreement. This report encompasses aspects such as the tendering processes and expenditure guidelines. A Parliamentary commission is anticipated to implement these recommendations, emphasising the need for diligent work by Government financial officers. There is a call for regulations governing political parties, with a committee studying global political processes. Free trade agreements, such as the one with Singapore, already signed, are crucial. Ongoing negotiations with India and China are underway, and agreements with Thailand are expected to be finalised in April. Future discussions with Myanmar are scheduled, maintaining diplomatic ties despite challenges. It is crucial to foster relations with Laos and Vietnam, drawing inspiration from their successful examples. Even amid conventional perspectives, the call is for unity to advance with a shared economic programme, much like the remarkable economic progress seen in Cambodia over a short period.”