A Development Partner Dialogue pertaining to the “Clean Sri Lanka” program was held at the Presidential Secretariat, aiming to secure contributions and support from international representatives. Key discussions involved security upgrades for the Sri Lanka Air Force and compensation for victims of Easter attacks. The government disclosed further compensation efforts following house destructions in 2022, underlining its commitment to address social issues and enhance national security.
A Development Partner Dialogue was convened on Thursday at the Presidential Secretariat to discuss the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative. This donor conference aimed to secure contributions and gather proposals from international representatives in support of the program. Organized by the United Nations and the Presidential Secretariat, the dialogue featured discussions led by UN Resident Coordinator Marc-Andre Franche and included participation from various diplomatic missions and development organizations.
Representatives from several diplomatic missions such as the British, Australian, Canadian, and Indian High Commissions, as well as embassies from Japan, China, and others attended the event. Key international development partners, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and International Monetary Fund (IMF), were also present. Officials from different ministries took part in discussions about the program, focusing on collaboration and potential support from development partners.
In a related meeting on the same day, President Anura Kumara Disanayake discussed national security with senior Sri Lanka Air Force officials. They focused on enhancing the Air Force’s capabilities, especially concerning maritime security within the Indian Ocean. Key points included future security measures and budget allocations for the Air Force from the latest national budget.
Separately, the Attorney General reported to the Supreme Court that Rs. 245 million in compensation had been distributed to victims of the Easter Sunday attacks. This was part of a larger Rs. 311 million allocation determined by the court. Additionally, preparations were made for further compensation for medical treatment and care for the elderly victims affected by the attacks. The court is scheduled to hear updates on the compensation process on May 21.
Chief Government Whip Minister Nalinda Jayathissa announced that the government has allocated Rs. 1.1 billion in compensation for houses destroyed in 2022. This figure comes on top of Rs. 1.2 billion previously paid to politicians. Notably, Gnanakka, an astrologer from Anuradhapura, received Rs. 28 million for damages to her temple caused by mob violence.
These events illustrate the ongoing efforts of the Sri Lankan government to engage with international partners, address security concerns, and provide reparations to victims of violence in the country.
The recent activities at the Presidential Secretariat highlight Sri Lanka’s efforts to promote international collaboration through initiatives like the “Clean Sri Lanka” program. The government’s ongoing discussions regarding security with the Air Force emphasize the focus on national safety. Additionally, the provision of compensation to victims of the Easter attacks and those affected by destruction reinforces the commitment to addressing past grievances as part of the country’s recovery process.
Original Source: island.lk
