Hon. (Dr.) Nishantha Samaraweera

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, thank you for the opportunity. We expect a substantive, data-driven debate focused on the country’s future. Unfortunately, many Opposition Members speak off-topic, simply to say something for the day.

¶ 02 This Fiscal Strategy Statement is a medium-term plan for 2026–2030, not the Budget. It sets quantitative fiscal targets: debt reduction (to clarify the 95 percent-of-GDP anchor), primary balance targets, and primary expenditure limits. Annually, before the Budget, we will table this Statement for Parliament and the public, thereby giving clarity to Ministries and establishing a basis for fair, evidence-based performance assessment.

¶ 03 This strengthens parliamentary oversight aligned to COPE and COPA, increases transparency and accountability, and prevents discretionary manipulation. With clear targets publicized, there will be no space for theft, fraud, or misuse.

¶ 04 It is our collective duty to understand and engage with this medium-term fiscal framework. If there are shortcomings, point them out so we can correct course. Thank you.