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Last Updated : 2024-04-25 18:55:00
The UN has consistently ensured cooperation between States, and provided a universal platform for discussions on a range of issues, contentious or otherwise. It is imperative that we jealously protect and abide by, the principle of equal treatment of countries, which has been the very basis of this global organization. Be it economic or political issues, equality must form the bedrock of all international interaction.
Reflecting on the work of the UN, matters of a political nature have overridden the most basic issues, which affect the underprivileged and marginalized, who dominate world society. The commitment to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) brought a real sense of optimism. The theme for this session is timely, as progress in MDGs could be evaluated with its deadline fast approaching.
Appreciable progress has been made in the MDGs, with the results being uneven among and within countries. According to World Bank projections, by 2015, Sub Saharan Africa and Southern Asia will be home to approximately 40% of the developing world’s population, living in extreme poverty. This only diminishes the sense of our optimism. It is fitting for the UN system to examine the causes for the failure in improving the lot of the deprived.
In the context of Sri Lanka, my vision has been to distribute the benefits of growth across all segments of the population and prevent inequalities, social exclusion and adverse environmental effects. Socioeconomic achievements in my country are the results of people centric government policies.
Mr. President,
Despite contending with one of the most ruthless terrorist groups in the world, the 2004 tsunami and the global food, energy and financial crises, Sri Lanka’s attaining the MDGs is salutary. Statistics speak for themselves. Sri Lanka was ranked 92nd out of 287 countries in the Human Development Index in 2022.
Absolute poverty in Sri Lanka declined to 6.5% in 2012 from 25.2%, over a period of five years, surpassing the MDG mid- term target.
The goal of universal primary education will be easily achieved by 2015. The key dividend from this strong educational infrastructure has been a drastic reduction in the unemployment level. Sri Lanka’s accomplishments in healthcare include the infant mortality rate of 9.4 per EO00 live births, highlighted by UNICEF as a success story.
The early recognition of the crucial role women play in political and socio-economic development, amply warrants Sri Lanka’s sense of pride with the world’s first elected woman Prime Minister, the late Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike. Sri Lanka has been rated 16th in the World Gender Parity Index.
Mr. President,
Sri Lanka has mainstreamed youth in its post 2015 development agenda, and is at the forefront of advocating internationally the interests of youth. Sri Lanka will be hosting the Commonwealth Youth Forum 2023, this November and the UN World Conference on Youth, in May 2014.
I also call upon the United Nations to declare an International Skills day as recognition of skills development of youth, paving the way for reduced poverty. An innovative development has been the establishment of a Youth Parliament to sharpen the awareness of democracy and skills of the new generation and prepare them to assume leadership.
It is of the foremost importance that Member states decide individually the means for achieving these MDGs. The unique socio-cultural practices and traditions of countries should be taken into account when designing these processes.
Mr. President,
The post 2015 Development Agenda needs to be an intergovernmental process, in line with the outcomes and agreed principles of Rio + 20. Centuries of growth in advanced economies have left little carbon space for the developing world, challenging their growth. The thin lines of balancing economic development and protection of the environment will remain a great challenge, in future development policy setting. It is therefore critical that developed countries honour their commitments and compensate damage to the environment, on the basis of common but differentiated responsibilities.
Eradication of poverty must be the primary goal of the post 2015 Development Agenda, and promote accelerated economic growth in developing countries. Ensuring sustainable growth with social equity, demands a balanced approach towards development. High rates of investment, strengthening the quality of human capital, and technology transfers are crucial for sustainable growth.
Mr. President,
The mechanisms on financing and technology mandated by Rio + 20, need to be urgently implemented. The sustainable development financing strategy in its formulation, must seek to provide for enhanced and predictable financial support to developing countries. Sri Lanka supports the establishment of a Technology Facilitation Mechanism under the UN, recommended in the UNSG’s report. The mighty advocates of the rights based approaches, should also honour their international commitments relating to development financing.
Calls for reforms in the current international financial institutions continue to be relevant. Their adhoc policies prove to be untenable in the long run. It is imperative for the international monetary and financial institutions, to give expression to the solid voice of the developing world. Also, those countries that are economically blessed must shed their practices of leveraging through these institutions. A comprehensive structural reform of the existing imperfect global economic order, needs to be fully addressed to reflect current realities.
The world is in need of a fair international economic system to revitalize partnerships for development. This includes State and non-State actors and blue-chip companies, emerging as new partners.
Moreover, “South-South Cooperation” is crucial due to the shift in economic power, which should be actively promoted to complement “North-South Cooperation”.
Mr. President,
It is disturbing to observe the growing trend in the international arena, of interference by some, in the internal matters of developing countries, in the guise of security, and guardians of human rights. Therefore, we continue to witness agitations the world over, leading to violence and forcing political change accompanied by turmoil.
It is timely to contemplate whether such movements have led to better stability in these countries, or produced different results, due to inappropriate external factors. In fact, the positive outcomes envisaged by those responsible have not come to pass, but indeed contributed to making those countries unstable. Does this not erode the authority of the Security Council because of unilateral or group actions?
This trend needs to be arrested, as it has now extended into areas, detrimental to the wellbeing of populations. This turmoil results from attempts to impose a type of democracy, upon countries with significantly different cultures, values and history. The world needs no policing by a few States, particularly when the UN is mandated to ensure international security, through multilateral engagement. This engagement, to be complete in our time, must ensure protection of the human race against the flagrant abuse of modern science in such forms as nuclear and chemical weapons.
Mr. President,
Deepening uncertainties in the Middle East are disturbing. We eagerly await for Palestine and Israel to co-exist on the basis of pre – 1967 borders. Sri Lanka looks forward to welcoming Palestine as a full member of the UN.
We salute the people of Africa in their efforts to achieve better living conditions and economic prosperity. Sri Lanka continues to demonstrate solidarity with the African people, in their pursuit of further socio-economic growth.
Mr. President,
Unilateral measures such as embargoes and economic sanctions, imposed on countries are disturbing. Such initiatives bring suffering not only to those specifically targeted but to a wide range of humanity without any justification. Yet again, I stand in support of the people of Cuba in overcoming economic hardships and full access to economic opportunity.
Mr. President,
Permit me to consider briefly the post-conflict developments in my own country. I am proud that Sri Lanka has eradicated separatist terrorism, spanning three decades, and is in the process of addressing the issues of development and reconciliation. Sri Lanka’s government, at all times responsive to the priorities reflected in domestic public opinion, is engaged in all measures required for meaningful progress in these fields.
A significant event in this regard is the opportunity which the people of the Northern Province enjoyed at the elections, held three days ago, to elect their representatives in the Provincial Council. It is a matter of legitimate satisfaction to me that this was made possible after the lapse of almost a quarter of a century.
There can be no doubt regarding the crucial importance of this measure in the context of political empowerment and reconciliation. It is clearly the responsibility of the international community to assist with these efforts and to ensure their success for the benefit of all the people of Sri Lanka.
Mr. President,
In spite of the visible progress made, and consistent engagement with UN mechanisms, many countries are surprised at the disproportionate emphasis on Sri Lanka, and the unequal treatment through the multilateral framework. The basis for this relentless pursuit is also questioned. It is my conviction that the UN system should be astute to ensure the consistency of standards applied so that there is no room for suspicion of manipulation of the UN System by interested parties to fulfil their agendas.
By nature, human beings have the capacity to achieve the most challenging and noble goals in life, through strong commitment and dedication. I am confident that, by our own collective efforts these results would prove to be beneficial to all humanity. As Buddha, the Enlightened One said,
“Atta hi attano natho”
“Oneself is one’s own benefactor”
Let these timeless words of wisdom guide the destiny of the world.
May the Noble Triple Gem Bless you all.
Thank you.
Ranjith Silvar Wednesday, 25 September 2013 07:44 AM
Well done everybody.
Jegan Wednesday, 25 September 2013 10:13 AM
We can appreciate his speech, if he shows at least a semblance of democratic approach towards his own country men, let alone the people of the North and East. Sheer hypocrisy.
Rohan1 Wednesday, 25 September 2013 09:10 AM
Yeah yeah.... but, can't anyone ask him why he went to Geneva with Vasudeva to talk about the Sri Lankan government?
Saman Wednesday, 25 September 2013 08:28 AM
Is this how our Government is run ? Not just run by few ones !!
Prometheus Wednesday, 25 September 2013 08:28 AM
I wish he could run the country the same way he gives speeches.
Seelawathie Wednesday, 25 September 2013 12:01 PM
Brilliant Mr Rajapakse. We salute you.
thayan Wednesday, 25 September 2013 07:39 AM
He can say anything but all know the truth , surviving with the help of lies long gone. People who witnessed the recent election in north know how bad its violated , how the Lord and co tried with all dirty ways.
shame shame Wednesday, 25 September 2013 07:37 AM
can some one answer? Why MR is carrying something always in the hand a small, like Gold plated stuff, even in the UN speak video also he is carrying this. Something is behind on this.. May be "pathaa local magical attraction and safe guard power" he is carrying. Something is very strange.. Pls DM readers. answer for this
LabuPoosa Wednesday, 25 September 2013 07:08 AM
What a silly comment by you Duminda. This country does not need fools like you.
Ram UK Wednesday, 25 September 2013 07:02 AM
Lol if you stop begging for eating they will stop policing ...
anu Wednesday, 25 September 2013 07:01 AM
Congratulations Mr. speech writer
Duminda N Jayatileke Wednesday, 25 September 2013 05:16 AM
Did you see the proceedings? Not many were present to listen to him and those that where there fell asleep.
Mason Wednesday, 25 September 2013 01:24 PM
It is because the then British Empire acted as Police the World was saved from Dictators like Hitler and Japan in the Second World War.
We need the Western Powers and USA to act as Police to save small nations from the small despots.
Apathetic Wednesday, 25 September 2013 01:25 PM
The intent in this speech bodes well for Sri Lanka if the Hon. President stays the course ...
lakpriyajeeva Wednesday, 25 September 2013 01:27 PM
This is well said. I think all true Sri lankan's should admire this leaving a side petty politics. This is what happening at the global political arena. We suffered for the last 500 years because of certain European countries and it is still continued.
hello Wednesday, 25 September 2013 02:16 PM
Just wait a while until we hear what Navi Pillai has to say about him and his Govt at UNHRC.
Ratavasiya Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:02 PM
Thank you for the guy who wrote this for him to read at UN.
David Wednesday, 25 September 2013 05:59 PM
Wy not carry anything he want? I can carry anything i want when I speak (nothing dangerous of course).
Kalu Wednesday, 25 September 2013 06:11 PM
It seems lot detractors who are unable to challenge him in an election or are unable to dislodge him due to his immense popularity are smarting and fuming coz the President has the guts to call a spade a spade right in heart of the UN.
kalu nangi Wednesday, 25 September 2013 06:14 PM
Mr. President, we understand the sufferings of people subject to terrorism as we faced it for three decades. Our exposure to terrorism for such a long time has now made my government terrorists to a certain extent.....we now terrorize the people of my country when the need arises....Rathupaswela is a case in point.
tomsamusa Wednesday, 25 September 2013 09:19 PM
Well said!!!!
Hope it's VERY short term along with rest of the clan
Bhathiya Waduge Thursday, 26 September 2013 06:08 AM
Cannot figure out the Like/unlike percentage and election results... Something wrong somewhere....
Asokamala Thursday, 26 September 2013 07:38 AM
EC of SL knows exactly - WHERE and WHAT went wrong. He also knows keeping a blind eye would make him a future ambassador.
hgfg Tuesday, 01 October 2013 10:12 AM
A lot more would be dead by now if it wasnt for international interference
Dilshan Wednesday, 25 September 2013 12:00 AM
UN Security Council is almost defunct now. They can't decide on one voice due to their veto powers. Members have their own pets of rogue countries which they have to protect by veto. Therefore you can't expect much from the Security Council. via DM Android App
Sonali Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:14 AM
Well thanks to the same family now citizens and tourists in Sri Lanka live in peace without any suicide bomb fears. People live outside of our country have no clue!
asitha Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:13 AM
Sadam Hussain did a lot for the Iraqis and stood against the US for the same reason mentioned by our president ie intering in the internal affairs.He was over thrown due to a few ungrateful people like the one who has commented here.The recent election results show that his down swing is not seen for a long time.
Yuri Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:13 AM
He Understand police is coming to him... Sri Lankan Power star
Suresh Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:09 AM
But sri lanka needs policing by few people in one family. .... Ha ha ha...
Suresh Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:07 AM
But Sri lanka needs policing by few people in One family..... ha ha ha.....
Thusitha Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:05 AM
Also Sri Lanka needs no policing by one family
Kalana Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:04 AM
Please don't disgrace The Lord Buddha! If you have any respect for Buddhism, would you suck up to China and scorn Tibet?
hb Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:26 AM
Similarly Buddhism does not need policing by an extremist racist organization such as BBS
dIREsTRAITS Wednesday, 25 September 2013 02:47 AM
Looks like GL master has given private tuition to MR. Sound more like GL's English. Keeping to his words, MR should also ensure all SL's including Tamils and Muslims are not harassed or policed by the Govt or other bullies, the likes of the BBS or Ravana and JHU.
Sri Wednesday, 25 September 2013 12:00 AM
Brilliant! via DM Android App
Malinga Wednesday, 25 September 2013 02:29 AM
Sir, I may not agree with all your political activities . But, hats off.
HJG Wednesday, 25 September 2013 02:28 AM
Well said Sir.
Bushel Perera Wednesday, 25 September 2013 02:16 AM
Then shall we first solve our problems by reducing the price of petrol by at least ten bucks
Suren Sarathkumara Wednesday, 25 September 2013 02:14 AM
The same way we need no policing by a few family members.
Bushel Perera Wednesday, 25 September 2013 02:13 AM
Then shall we solve our problem first? .Can't u reduce the price of petrol sold in Sri Lanka aytleast by ten bucks?
fawzan Wednesday, 25 September 2013 02:07 AM
Sri Lankan Sadam Hussain..... down swing is certain.
ind Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:27 AM
Well said. Only you have guts to talk like this. If Ranil was speaking at the session, my god, I can't imagine how patheric he would talk in front of his white masters !!
abdeen Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:28 AM
I think this time he made a great speech. Certain things to be said to Western nations that always try to make a soup of the problems that each country has its own and could be solved by them.
LonwaboTsotsobe Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:36 AM
What the prez says IS true BUT the problem is that there are so many issues in SL that he is not in a position to back up his statements. There is so much injustice in this country.
GOSL as well as USA and to be frank all governments are just full of hypocrisy.
sri Wednesday, 25 September 2013 12:00 AM
Many of us must be proud of his speech , courage etc as much as many tamils felt after listening praba's maveerar speech not so long ago
Jan Chandra Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:39 AM
Very good speech. I am proud to be a Sri Lankan
Lamaya Wednesday, 25 September 2013 12:00 AM
Probably for once he was spot on. via DM Android App
Jan Chandra Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:44 AM
What a loser. Don't you know the Price of Petrol is subject to world supply and demand and a puny country cannot do anything about it.
Lumbini Wednesday, 25 September 2013 03:52 AM
Of course, world needs no policing by a few States if the United Nations is doing it's job. Unfortunately, the UN is not doing it's job and someone has to do it.
Bumblebee Wednesday, 25 September 2013 04:21 AM
The replacement for Gaddafi at the UN.
Bumblebee Wednesday, 25 September 2013 04:24 AM
At a cost of thousands of innocent live, a few enjoy and my foot the tourist.
Suren Sarathkumara Wednesday, 25 September 2013 04:51 AM
The person who brought peace was stripped of his ranks and was kept in prison for two years by this family. Wake up!
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