SL no more financially bankrupt: President

Saturday, 3 February 2024 01:54 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday implied that Sri Lanka is no longer a financially bankrupt country.

In a message to mark Independence Day today, Wickremesinghe recalled that when Sri Lanka commemorated the 75th year of independence, “We encountered the indignity of being labelled a financially bankrupt country.”

“Nevertheless, upon the advent of the 76th Independence Day, we have effectively navigated through these challenges, steering the economy toward stability despite numerous impediments and challenges,” said the President.

He said that achievements were realised progressively, owing to the steadfast support of citizens who endured hardships in keeping with a comprehensive, long-term national rebuilding program. Throughout this journey, the President assured, challenges will gradually dissipate, life’s burdens will lighten, the economy will fortify and Mother Sri Lanka will undergo a renaissance.

He said that upon gaining independence in 1948, global expectations envisioned Sri Lanka evolving into a developed nation in the East, given our favourable background. “Regrettably, we deviated from this course and found ourselves grappling with economic difficulties,” he said.

“It is imperative that we obtain insights from past mistakes and avoid their repetition. With the current growth trajectory acknowledged globally, let us collectively resolve on this Independence Day to persist on this path and reinstate prosperity,” said the President and invited all Sri Lankans, at home and abroad, to contribute their utmost energy to the noble mission of rebuilding the nation.