We have absolute responsibility to guarantee better future for children - Prime Minister

Today we in Sri Lanka, celebrate the World Children's Day. The main purpose of this day is to pay special attention to the needs of the child, said Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wckramanayaka issuing a message on World Children's Day.

It said: "We in Sri Lanka as a nation, have always given and will continue to give special attention to the needs of children whether special days are designated or not for the child. We are today living in a complex and complicated society and it so happens that sometimes we tend to overlook our responsibilities. However, the needs of the child are not something we should overlook or ignore.

Future belongs to children and we adults are their immediate world Children always seek attention and guidance as they need someone to share their thoughts, aspirations and dreams.

The UN Convention of the Child provides that a child who has reached a stage to form his or her views has the right to express ideas freely and views of the child should be given due recognition while taking into consideration his or her age and level of maturity.

"We have to accept the position that it is our absolute responsibility to guarantee a better future for the child. We have to listen to children and create a better environment and future for them.

Certainly if we pay special attention to the needs of the child a better and more hopeful future will dawn for children. Children are a precious gift to parents".