Why Sri Lanka should not delay in organizing a donor conference: Former diplomat Kananathan

Sri Lanka should not delay in organizing an international Donor Conference in the aftermath of one of the worst natural calamities the country has experienced in its modern history—an event now widely considered to be more devastating than the 2004 tsunami. Initial assessments estimate the damage at over USD 7 billion, with the figure expected to increase as comprehensive evaluations continue.

Former Envoy stressed that while the international community has responded with immediate humanitarian assistance, such support is largely short-term and cannot be assumed to continue indefinitely. “We are grateful for the prompt assistance extended by the international community,” Kananathan indicated. “However, emergency relief alone will not be sufficient to meet the enormous task of national reconstruction that lies ahead.”

He further warned that global attention is constantly shifting due to wars, economic crises, and natural disasters occurring across the world. “International priorities change rapidly. If Sri Lanka does not move quickly to organize a Donor Conference, the urgency of our situation may fade as new global crises emerge,” Kananathan emphasized.

According to Kananathan, the present moment is crucial, as global goodwill toward Sri Lanka remains strong. “This is the time to act—when the iron is hot. Delaying action could result in lost opportunities for securing much-needed financial commitments for rebuilding infrastructure, restoring livelihoods, and strengthening disaster resilience,” he noted.

A timely Donor Conference, he explained, would allow Sri Lanka to present a clear and transparent roadmap for reconstruction, assure accountability, and strengthen confidence among development partners and international financial institutions. “Such a forum will demonstrate Sri Lanka’s seriousness and readiness to rebuild in a sustainable and resilient manner,” Kananathan added.

He urged swift and decisive leadership, stating that the cost of inaction would far exceed the cost of immediate engagement. “Sri Lanka cannot afford to wait while global attention moves elsewhere. Organizing a Donor Conference without delay is not just an option—it is a national necessity,” Kananathan said.