President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized the critical role of Sri Lanka’s business community in aiding both immediate relief operations and long-term recovery following the severe weather conditions affecting the country.
Addressing leading private sector representatives at the Defence Headquarters during a meeting with The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, the President briefed attendees on the ongoing national rescue and relief measures.
He highlighted the need for coordinated public-private collaboration to accelerate recovery and ensure communities receive timely support.
Discussions focused on the challenges confronting industries amid the emergency, including disruptions to tourism, airport operations, and transportation networks.
The meeting also discussed post-disaster priorities such as the restoration of electricity and drinking water supplies, as well as repairs to key infrastructure, including highways and bridges.
President Dissanayake assured business leaders that the government remains committed to a rapid recovery process and invited continued cooperation to safeguard economic stability and public wellbeing.
Officials present included Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sampath Thuyacontha, Tri-Forces Commanders, the Inspector General of Police, and senior officials of the defence services.
The delegation of business leaders included The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Chairman Krishan Balendra and members such as Mohan Pandithage, Nathan Sivagananathan, Supun Weerasinghe, Asoka Hettigoda, Yohan Lawrence, M. Shanthikumar, Hashitha Premaratne and Sanjaya Jayaratne.
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