WHO Sri Lanka celebrates inauguration of new office

The Minister of Health, Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine Dr. Rajitha Senaratne and WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh inaugurated the new office of WHO Sri Lanka on 23 February.

“We are honoured to have such distinguished guests with us here today for this important occasion, the unveiling of our new premises in Anderson Road, Colombo 5. Today marks a new era for WHO’s work with the Government and people of Sri Lanka which has lasted over six decades,” said WHO Representative to Sri Lanka Dr. Jacob Kumaresan.

The new office was fitted with modern furnishings in an open plan setting, with an extensive library, gym and conference room facilities. The new setting promotes a more harmonious working environment, and enhances communication and collaboration among staff.

Following the inauguration, guests were invited on a tour of the new premises. Commending the move, Minister of Health, Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine Dr. Rajitha Senaratne remarked: “It is very important that WHO has a good office for its staff and a gymnasium to keep staff healthy, as they carry out their work supporting the Ministry of Health. We look forward to continuing this close partnership in future.”

WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh congratulated the WHO Sri Lanka team on their new office and praised the work of both the Ministry of Health and WHO Sri Lanka.

“Sri Lanka is a leader on global health issues, particularly in the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases. The Government has introduced food traffic light labelling systems, tobacco taxes have been increased to 90% and the government is planning to introduce plain packaging for tobacco and cigarettes. This impressive work must be commended and shared with the rest of the world,” emphasised Dr. Khetrapal Singh.

Representatives from Ministry of Health, UN Agencies, Embassies, and the academic community participated in the celebration.