INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted the need for a program similar to the initiatives undertaken by the late Mr
Jayathilaka, which played a crucial role in establishing a strong foundation in Sri Lanka across social, cultural, religious and educational
(YMBA) at the Bandaranaike International Conference Hall in Colombo yesterday afternoon (07), the President emphasized the importance of
collective progress as one Sri Lankan nation, with a focus on the future rather than the present.The Colombo YMBA, founded under the
chairmanship of Sir Anagarika Dharmapala on January 8, 1898, with Mr
Jayatilaka as its founding chairman, stands as the oldest and largest Buddhist organization in the country, contributing significantly to
launch of a special issue marking the 125th anniversary, and he awarded scholarships to ten university students
A group photo featuring the President, heads of the association, members of the governing board and members of the working committee was
also taken.President Ranil Wickremesinghe, offering additional remarks, acknowledged the historical significance of the Colombo YMBA,
Association has reached a significant milestone of 125 years since its inception
were being established in Western countries
In contrast, we, during that time, were actively involved in the Buddhist renaissance
Visionary leaders such as Ven
Sri Sumangala Thera of Hikkaduwa and Colonel Henry Steel Olcott played key roles in spearheading the Buddhist renaissance in our nation
diverges from that of Western countries, focusing on advancing the country through Buddhist education
Jayathilaka, this association has played a pivotal role in supporting the Kelaniya Rajamaha Viharaya
We recognize the Young Buddhist Association as a significant force in our freedom movement, and in celebration of its 125th anniversary, I
intend to extend a gesture
The government-owned land in Colombo Fort is granted to the association for an additional 99 years, with plans to develop it into a tourist
The goal is to address all war-related issues by 2025, providing political solutions for the displaced and missing persons.Furthermore,
there are plans to enhance the religious centre in Nagadeepa and establish a distinctive Hindu temple in Jaffna, emphasizing the importance
Engaging with the youth is crucial; their input, plans and ideas are essential for nation-building.Looking beyond the present, we aim to
recreate the kind of arrangement initiated by Mr
history as an agriculture-centric nation
The emphasis now is on ensuring the safe export of our food crops through sustainable agricultural practices, requiring concerted
efforts.Simultaneously, the Anti-Corruption Commission has been established, with a dedicated committee appointed by the Legislative
Going beyond local financial regulations, we have submitted a comprehensive report on financial control in alignment with the International
This report encompasses aspects such as tendering processes and expenditure guidelines
A parliamentary commission is anticipated to implement these recommendations, emphasizing the need for diligent work by government financial
officers.Addressing the political landscape, there is a call for regulations governing political parties, with a committee studying global
This plays a crucial role in shaping our political framework.To engage globally, collaboration with other nations is essential
Free trade agreements, such as the one with Singapore already signed, are crucial
Ongoing negotiations with India and China are underway, and agreements with Thailand are expected to be finalized in April, marking a
significant milestone for the country.Future discussions with Myanmar are scheduled, maintaining diplomatic ties despite challenges
It is crucial to foster relations with Laos and Vietnam, opening our economy to the world, drawing inspiration from their successful
Even amid conventional perspectives, the call is for unity to advance with a shared economic program, much like the remarkable economic
Jayathilaka, alongside influential figures like C.S
Dissanayake, a young Catholic.The Colombo YMBA, emerging from the vision of these pioneering individuals, has played a pivotal role in
fostering national and religious unity since its inception
Notably, strong national figures like D.S
Senanayake and Sir Ernest Silva were nurtured in the influential environment of the Colombo YMBA
The formation of the National Council in 1919-1920, initiated by the association, further solidified its impact on national politics,
involving leaders from diverse backgrounds.Over the course of 125 years, the Colombo YMBA has been instrumental in shaping national
It is imperative that we engage in discussions to rectify past mistakes, fostering a collective effort to move forward
The success of our endeavours to advance the country hinges on our ability to unite people in dialogue, determining the necessary framework
Amarapura Maha Nikaya, President of Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Sangha, Scholar Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maitrimurthi Maha Nayaka Thero, and
the Chief Prelate of the Atkanda Rajamaha Viharaya, Venerable Anamaduve Sri Dhammadassi Anunayake of the Asgiri Vihara Mahavihara Vamsika
Shyamopali Maha Nikaya and other Maha Sangha.The attendees also comprised leaders from various religious backgrounds, including
representatives from Hindu, Catholic, and Islamic faiths
Former Presidents Mahinda Rajapaksa and Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, Minister of State Chamara
Sampath Dasanayake, Members of Parliament Rajitha Senaratne and Tissa Attanayake, as well as the President of the Governing Board of the
Colombo YMBA, Ajitha De Soysa, and Prasantha Abeykoon, Secretary, were also present
The event was further graced by the participation of foreign ambassadors, academicians, professionals, artists and other distinguished
