Chief Prelates of Asgiriya and Malwathu calls for sustainable national policy to end economic crisis

The Chief Prelates of Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters have directed a letter to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, which includes 14 points calling for a sustainable national policy to support the public battered by the economic crisis.

The Maha Nayaka Thero highlighted the importance of convening an all-party conference consisting of local and foreign experts to formulate a plan towards sustainable development.

The proposals include implementing development projects, lowering the cost of living and creating a local economic model according to a list of priorities identified to alleviate the foreign exchange crisis.

The Maha Nayaka Thero also proposed the provision of relief for the production of essential food items, agriculture, and the farming community.

They pointed out the importance of enforcing the law against individuals who artificially create shortages of essential commodities.

The letter also encourages investments and foreign remittances through a transparent economic plan, and building an export economy.

The Maha Nayaka Thero added it is crucial to encourage new investments, restructure public debt, and provide relief to low income earners.

The venerable also emphasised the importance of formulating a sustainable plan to prevent waste, corruption, and misuse of resources.

The Asgiri and Malwathu Maha Nayaka Thero added that all Members of Parliament must commit towards such efforts in order to uplift the country economically, regardless of party differences.