Development Partner Dialogue and Government Initiatives for Sri Lanka
The Presidential Secretariat and the UN held a Development Partner Dialogue for the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative to secure contributions from international stakeholders. Key diplomatic and financial institutions participated. Additionally, discussions on national security included a focus on the Sri Lanka Air Force’s capabilities. The Attorney General reported Rs. 245 million allocated in compensation for Easter attack victims, while further housing compensation was announced.
On Thursday, the Presidential Secretariat and the United Nations jointly hosted a Development Partner Dialogue focused on the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative—a significant government program aimed at securing contributions from various stakeholders. The conference, led by UN Resident Coordinator Marc-Andre Franche, sought to gather proposals and support from represented organizations.
Attendance included diplomats from multiple high commissions and embassies, such as those of the UK, Australia, Canada, and India. Key international development partners like the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and International Monetary Fund also participated, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Employment and Tourism.
In another meeting on the same day at the Presidential Secretariat, President Anura Kumara Disanayake engaged with senior officials from the Sri Lanka Air Force to discuss the nation’s current security situation. Topics included enhancing the Air Force’s maritime security capabilities and budgetary allocations outlined in the latest national budget.
Separately, the Attorney General informed the Supreme Court that Rs. 245 million had been disbursed to victims of the Easter Sunday attacks, as ordered by a January verdict. The Supreme Court continues to oversee the allocation of funds for the affected individuals, with discussions emphasizing the need for transparency in the compensation reports.
Moreover, Chief Government Whip Minister Nalinda Jayathissa announced that additional compensation totaling Rs. 1.125 billion was allocated for individuals whose homes were destroyed in 2022, following previous compensatory measures. The minister particularly noted that astrologer Gnanakka received Rs. 28 million for damages to her Devalaya during mob violence.
The recent Development Partner Dialogue convened by the Presidential Secretariat and the UN signifies a proactive step towards enhancing the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative through multilateral support. Furthermore, ongoing discussions within the government reflect a commitment to addressing security concerns and ensuring justice for victims of violence, as demonstrated by the disbursement of compensation funds and the government’s response to housing destruction in 2022.
Original Source: island.lk