The Hon. (Dr.) Rizvie Salih - Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committees

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, I rise today to speak on this Adjournment Debate on the Central Bank’s Annual Economic Review 2025 not only with a sense of responsibility, but also with a convinced sense of hope.

¶ 02 In this Chamber it is easy to fill time with percentages and jargon. But behind every figure there is a human story—a family recovering, a business surviving, a graduate seeking opportunity, a citizen hoping. That is why this Debate matters: 2025 is not merely numbers improving, but a resilient nation that refused to give up.

¶ 03 We all remember the dark days—fuel queues, parents worrying about feeding children, pharmacies short of medicines, power cuts, uncertainty, fear, frustration, anger. I am not here to blame, but to pay tribute to our citizens who kept this nation functioning—the farmer, fisherman, teacher, doctor, nurse, public servant, labourer, small business owner.

¶ 04 Against that background, 2025 deserves recognition. Confidence is returning—one of our most valuable assets. When confidence returns, recovery begins. The test is simple: does the ordinary person feel relief? Can families live with dignity? Can people see a future here? Can small businesses survive? Positive answers deserve applause.

¶ 05 Overseas Sri Lankans made a remarkable contribution—remittances at historically high levels. They sacrifice much; they are silent economic heroes.

¶ 06 The external sector strengthened: despite global uncertainty and a wider trade deficit, Sri Lanka maintained a current account surplus. The financial sector improved—banks strengthened profitability and asset quality; liquidity and capital buffers stayed above requirements. A stable banking system lets depositors feel secure, businesses get credit, entrepreneurs expand, and families invest. Private sector credit expansion in 2025 reflects revival and confidence.

¶ 07 Modernization and reform continued—digital payments, stronger supervision, anti–money laundering measures. Nations are judged not only by roads and buildings, but by institutional strength, technological readiness, financial credibility, and governance.

¶ 08 While there is optimism, there is no room for complacency. The global environment is uncertain—the Middle East conflict risks energy prices, trade, tourism, and financial flows. Climate disasters are more frequent and destructive; Sri Lanka is vulnerable. We must build resilience while maintaining fiscal discipline and policy consistency. Past mistakes will not be repeated. Sustainable recovery cannot be built on short-term popularity. Difficult decisions must be accompanied by compassion and social protection. We will balance responsibility and compassion.

¶ 09 Growth must be inclusive—reaching every region and citizen: farmer in Anuradhapura, fisherman in Trincomalee, plantation worker in Hatton, trader in Pettah, teacher in Matara, entrepreneur in Jaffna. Economic division becomes social division and weakens unity.

¶ 10 Our youth need opportunities, skills, innovation, and confidence to build lives here. If they lose faith, no statistic can save us. Development must be people-centred, future-oriented, and inclusive—that is our path.

¶ 11 Sri Lanka suffered, but showed resilience. Today, we are regaining stability, rebuilding confidence, and restoring hope—through sacrifice, discipline, reforms, and the patience of our people. Let us strengthen institutions, encourage production, create opportunities, and build a Sri Lanka where stability is matched by social justice and unity. True strength lies in dignity, hope, trust, and belief in a better tomorrow. Sri Lanka is rising again. Thank you.