Topic
Foreign Affairs
874 speeches · 189 speakers
Party share
By the speaker's party · counts only, no scoring. "Unattributed" = speeches not resolved to an MP.
Most active on this topic
| # | Member | Speeches |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, M.P. NDF | 68 |
| 2 | Hon. Vijitha Herath, M.P. JJB | 45 |
| 3 | Hon. Sajith Premadasa, M.P. SJB | 42 |
| 4 | Hon. Arun Hemachandra, M.P. JJB | 33 |
| 5 | Hon. (Dr.) Anil Jayantha, M.P. JJB | 26 |
| 6 | Hon. Mujibur Rahman, M.P. SJB | 21 |
| 7 | Hon. (Prof.) Ruwan Ranasinghe, M.P. JJB | 20 |
| 8 | Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney at Law, M.P. SJB | 19 |
| 9 | Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva, M.P. SJB | 19 |
| 10 | Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC, M.P. SJB | 19 |
Speeches
874 on this topic- 8 May 2026 The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa welcomed President To Lam’s visit to Parliament and highlighted the long-standing Sri Lanka–Viet Nam relationship, including past visits by Vietnamese leaders. He praised Viet Nam’s post-conflict economic transformation, the Doi Moi reforms, foreign investment success, and inclusive growth as lessons for Sri Lanka in macroeconomic and microeconomic management. He called for closer bilateral cooperation, particularly in electronics, artificial intelligence, and other advanced technological sectors, and expressed support for strengthening ties based on mutual respect. Opening: Ceremonial Reception of H.E. To Lam, President of Socialist Republic of Viet Nam Read →
- 8 May 2026 The Hon. Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education JJB AI summary Hon. Harini Amarasuriya welcomed Vietnamese President To Lam to Parliament during his State Visit marking 55 years of Sri Lanka–Viet Nam diplomatic relations, noting historical links, mutual support, and cooperation in multilateral fora. She highlighted the growth of bilateral ties across politics, trade, education, technology, agriculture, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, and described his address as the first by a Vietnamese leader to Sri Lanka’s Parliament. She also referred to Viet Nam’s development experience in digital transformation, green growth, infrastructure, and human capital as relevant to Sri Lanka’s own policy direction. Opening: Ceremonial Reception of H.E. To Lam, President of Socialist Republic of Viet Nam Read →
- 8 May 2026 His Excellency To Lam - President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Viet Nam AI summary President To Lam conveyed Viet Nam’s greetings to Sri Lanka and acknowledged Sri Lanka’s efforts toward stability, recovery and development. He emphasized the historical and cultural foundations of Viet Nam–Sri Lanka relations, including President Ho Chi Minh’s visits to Sri Lanka, the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and recent high-level exchanges. He outlined Viet Nam’s experience with the Doi Moi reforms since 1986, describing the shift from a centrally planned economy to a socialist-oriented market economy through institutional reform, enterprise development, international integration and a rule-of-law state. Opening: Ceremonial Reception of H.E. To Lam, President of Socialist Republic of Viet Nam Read →
- 8 May 2026 Mr. Speaker [The Hon. (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne] AI summary The Speaker welcomed Viet Nam’s President To Lam to the Parliament of Sri Lanka, noting that it was his first address to a foreign Parliament and describing it as a milestone in bilateral relations. He highlighted the countries’ diplomatic ties since 1970, earlier consular relations, shared Buddhist and cultural links, Sri Lanka’s historical support for Viet Nam, and President Ho Chi Minh’s visits to Sri Lanka. He also referred to the establishment of the Sri Lanka–Viet Nam Parliamentary Friendship Group in 2025 and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s State visit to Viet Nam, citing cooperation in trade, investment, defence, agriculture, tourism, education, technology and political engagement. Opening: Ceremonial Reception of H.E. To Lam, President of Socialist Republic of Viet Nam Read →
- 7 May 2026 The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara alleged that a Cabinet memorandum on e-passports sought approval to award the procurement to Thales DIS Finland Oy/Just in Time Technologies despite ministerial claims that no decision had been made, and he tabled the document while warning of possible international and GSP-related repercussions. He also questioned plans to use Indian funds to assign digital ID printing to Madras Security Printers, citing earlier parliamentary allegations about losses, counterfeit excise stickers and blacklisting concerns. He further raised allegations over an Airbus A330-200 lease, arguing that RTI-disclosed details indicated excessive cost and maintenance risks for an ageing aircraft, and referred to broader corruption and governance concerns including Treasury and municipal-level issues. Debate and Approval: Public Security Ordinance Extension (Emergency) - Part 2 Read →
- 7 May 2026 The Hon. Ananda Wijepala – Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs AI summary The Minister reported police action on three alleged assaults involving estate personnel and workers in Palmadulla, Mocha Estate, and Udupussellawa, stating that suspects had been arrested or remanded and would be produced before court. He said the Government does not condone assaults and that the law would apply equally to officials and others, while offering to provide further clarifications later. He also outlined regulations under the Immigrants and Emigrants Act to grant free 30-day tourist visas via ETA to nationals of 40 countries, arguing that the expected increase in tourist arrivals would offset foregone visa fee revenue, with the scheme to be reviewed after six months to one year and ETA-based security checks retained. Debate: National Transport Commission Act Regulations, Motor Traffic Act Regulations, Immigrants and Emigrants Act Regulations Read →
- 7 May 2026 The Hon. Arun Hemachandra - Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment JJB AI summary The Deputy Minister tabled a written answer on behalf of the Minister detailing Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment registrations of housemaids from 2015 to March 2026, totaling 767,809, with country-wise data and death statistics provided in annexes. The response stated that worker information is entered into the SLBFE computerized system at registration and listed deaths by year and cause categories for 2015–2026. It also outlined SLBFE welfare measures, including free and optional enhanced insurance, scholarships and school supplies for children, concessionary loans, welfare fund assistance, entrepreneurship grants, emergency and housing support, a contributory pension scheme, and increased death and funeral benefits. Second Round of Oral Questions (Q.10 and Tabled Answers) Read →
- 7 May 2026 The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka (on behalf of the Hon. Hector Appuhamy) SJB AI summary A question was raised to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism seeking detailed SLBFE data on registered Sri Lankan housemaids who left for overseas employment from 2015 to date, including annual and country-wise figures. It also asked whether their records are maintained in the SLBFE data system, the numbers who died, committed suicide, or suffered accidents, and what welfare measures are taken by the Bureau for them. Second Round of Oral Questions (Q.10 and Tabled Answers) Read →
- 7 May 2026 The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF AI summary Ravi Karunanayake stated that the Committee recommended extending Sri Lanka’s visa-on-arrival scheme to all countries. He said this measure would support tourism. Papers: Annual Reports and Committee Report Read →
- 6 May 2026 The Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Attorney-at-Law SJB AI summary Rauff Hakeem criticised remarks by the President that he said appeared to signal pressure on the judiciary, noting the Bar Association of Sri Lanka’s objections. He then congratulated Joseph Vijay on his Tamil Nadu election victory and highlighted the importance of linguistic identity over religious identity among Tamil-speaking communities, also extending greetings to elected representatives from Muslim and allied parties in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. He urged Vijay to avoid “emotional and unrealistic” claims on Kachchativu and instead promote stronger India-Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu-Sri Lanka ties, including engagement with the Indian Central Government. Debate: Rescue, Rehabilitation and Insolvency (Corporate and Personal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 6 May 2026 The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB AI summary Hon. Amila Prasad supported the Bill as a long-prepared measure to assist entrepreneurs and employers, but questioned why its tabling was delayed despite groundwork under the previous government, saying many MSMEs lost assets to bank seizures in the interim. He called for clarity on any government amendments, practical implementation measures, and a longer bank negotiation period of 180 days to support out-of-court business recovery. He also raised concerns about Colombo Port City company registrations and business visas being misused for alleged cybercrime, urging stronger scrutiny of registrations, visas, tax compliance, and post-registration reviews. Debate: Rescue, Rehabilitation and Insolvency (Corporate and Personal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 6 May 2026 The Hon. Jeevan Thondaman UNP AI summary Hon. Jeevan Thondaman welcomed the Tamil Nadu election result and urged the incoming Chief Minister to engage with Sri Lanka on issues including Katchatheevu, fisheries disputes between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lankan Tamil fishers, Sri Lankan Tamils in camps, and recognition of the distinct identity of Malaiyaha Tamils. He criticised the Government’s performance on estate-sector issues, alleging it had not delivered new housing despite citing the Indian Housing Project, and questioned its response to incidents in plantation areas. He demanded clear answers on whether the Government will grant land titles to estate residents, implement housing programmes, and ensure that the Police, rather than private actors, handle estate disputes, while stating that allegations of past corruption should be investigated rather than used to avoid these questions. Debate: Rescue, Rehabilitation and Insolvency (Corporate and Personal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 6 May 2026 The Hon. K. Kader Masthan SLLP AI summary Hon. K. Kader Masthan used the opportunity before raising a question to congratulate Vijay on his party’s victory in the Tamil Nadu State Assembly Election. He praised the campaign as being based on social justice, good governance, and inclusive development, and expressed hope that the new leadership would meet public expectations and advance the State’s development. Questions under Standing Order 27(2) and Points of Order Read →
- 5 May 2026 The Hon. Vijitha Herath - Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism JJB AI summary As of March 2026, 8,322 tourism service providers were registered with the SLTDA, while around 30,000 are estimated to be operating unregistered, though no comprehensive assessment has been conducted. The Minister stated that current law does not give SLTDA officers or the Tourist Police powers such as search, arrest, detention, or spot fines, and that inspections since September 2025 found 63 unregistered institutions, with legal action being prepared against some based on Attorney-General’s advice. He reported rising National Tourism Development Levy revenue from 2022 to 2025, 5,435 licensed tourist guides as at 31 March 2026, and said a new amended tourism law is being prepared to address shortcomings in the Tourism Act, No. 38 of 2005. Closing: Written Answers and Hansard Publication Information Read →
- 5 May 2026 The Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan DTNA AI summary Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan congratulated the incoming Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and marked the 40th remembrance of Sri Sabarathinam and TELO cadres, describing the period as Unity Week. He recalled divisions within Tamil militant and political movements, the formation of the Tamil National Alliance with LTTE recognition, and later fractures during local government politics. He argued that disunity had weakened Tamil representation, cited defeats linked to symbol-related propaganda, and urged the reconstitution of the TNA, stating that TELO is ready to support renewed unity among Tamil parties. Debate: Port City Economic Commission Regulations and Orders Read →
- 5 May 2026 The Hon. Thilina Samarakoon JJB AI summary Hon. Thilina Samarakoon supported the regulations and orders under the Port City Act No. 11 of 2021, stating that recent amendments are intended to facilitate business, promote strategic enterprises, expand international trade, and create mechanisms for alternative dispute resolution in the zone. He rejected Opposition economic claims as inconsistent with Central Bank analysis and urged Members to refer to the CBSL review of 31 December 2025 and quarterly releases. He described Port City as an urban, service-oriented hub for international commerce, dispute resolution, and residential amenities. Debate: Port City Economic Commission Regulations and Orders Read →
- 5 May 2026 The Hon. M.K.M. Aslam JJB AI summary Hon. M.K.M. Aslam supported the orders under the Port City Act, arguing that duty-free retail provisions and bespoke employment frameworks are necessary to attract foreign investment and suit the Port City’s role as a specialised commercial precinct. He defended the Government’s record on workers, education, and health, citing planned pay increases and higher budget allocations, and said economic indicators showed stability despite external shocks. He also stated that the Government’s five-year national plan is inclusive, anti-corruption, and focused on public safety, narcotics control, and protecting all communities. Debate: Port City Economic Commission Regulations and Orders Read →
- 5 May 2026 The Hon. Nishantha Jayaweera - Deputy Minister of Economic Development JJB AI summary Nishantha Jayaweera sought parliamentary approval for regulations under the Port City Economic Commission Act. He said one regulation aligns Port City labour rights with a court decision, while another allows tourists to use the USD 2,000 duty-free allowance across four visits instead of a single visit, with the aim of increasing tourist spending in Sri Lanka and the State’s 7% share of duty-free turnover. Debate: Port City Economic Commission Regulations and Orders Read →
- 5 May 2026 The Hon. (Prof.) Ruwan Ranasinghe JJB AI summary Hon. (Prof.) Ruwan Ranasinghe outlined ongoing and planned tourism promotion activities, noting that over Rs. 6 billion was spent on trade fair promotion in the previous year. He said a Rs. 5 billion global promotion programme is before the Treasury and awaiting Cabinet approval, while a Rs. 1 billion short-term campaign targeting off-season markets in China, India, Australia, and Spain has already been approved. Further promotional activities are expected to begin within about a month, subject to standard government procedures. Oral Question Q.3 (467/2025): Tourist Arrivals from 2010 - Details Read →
- 5 May 2026 The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF AI summary Ravi Karunanayake questioned the effectiveness of Sri Lanka’s tourism promotion strategy, noting inconsistent branding and limited international visibility, including the absence of Colombo from CNN weather coverage. He asked why funds collected from the formal hotel sector through the TDL/CESS, amounting to about Rs. 13 billion, were not being used more effectively for domestic and international marketing, and said industry stakeholders were concerned about a lack of clear direction from the Ministry. Oral Question Q.3 (467/2025): Tourist Arrivals from 2010 - Details Read →