The Hon. Arun Hemachandra - Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, good foreign policy is measured not by volume but by how wisely a nation protects its people, sovereignty, and long-term interests. In global uncertainty, responsible nations act with strategic neutrality to protect their citizens, economy, and future.

¶ 02 At such moments, a responsible Opposition should not weaken the country. During external pressure affecting energy routes and ongoing negotiations, this is not the time to stoke fear or misrepresent facts for short-term gain. Ask: do our words strengthen the country and protect our people?

¶ 03 We inherited bankruptcy and broken public trust. Our mandate under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was to stabilize: restore fiscal discipline; rebuild confidence; ensure availability of fuel, electricity, LP gas, medicines, and essentials; and regain credibility with institutions and partners. Difficult but necessary decisions.

¶ 04 Cyclone “Ditwah” struck during recovery—managing disaster amid recovery was even harder—but services continued and relief was delivered because of discipline.

¶ 05 The Middle East conflict is not distant: energy prices, shipping, air travel, tourism, and global markets are affected. Crucially, many Sri Lankans working overseas are impacted. From early escalation, our missions registered nationals, maintained contact, assisted, and coordinated with host governments. I appreciate our diplomats, staff, labour officers, international partners, airlines, tourism and aviation sectors for maintaining connectivity.

¶ 06 Sri Lanka calls on all parties to act with restraint, respect international law, and prioritize peaceful resolution. Small nations suffer first when wars expand. As a maritime nation near critical sea lanes, any instability directly affects us. Under international law, we have sovereign rights and responsibilities: support freedom of navigation, maritime security, and peaceful use of oceans.

¶ 07 Despite uncertainty, Sri Lanka is stable: lower budget deficit; public finance under control; positive current account; improved reserves; inflation down in recent months; exchange rate stabilizing in recent weeks. Fuel, electricity, and gas are available—those criticizing do so under restored normalcy. We keep the lights on for the whole nation.

¶ 08 We must also pursue opportunities: leverage location, ports, airports and maritime position; strengthen tourism, aviation, shipping, logistics, and energy security through careful planning, responsible action, and protection of national assets. Democracy allows criticism and demands responsibility. Patriotism is protecting the nation under pressure and placing Sri Lanka before politics. If we stay disciplined and united, we will overcome every challenge and keep the country stable and strong.

¶ 09 Thank you.