Sri Lanka playing important role in interconnected world - UN chief

“It is my great pleasure to extend to you and to the government and people of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka my warmest congratulations on the occasion of the National Holiday”, states UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon in a message to President Mahinda Rajapaksa to mark the 64th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s independence. The message adds: “This is an opportunity to celebrate the proud culture and history of your country. It is also a chance to reflect on the role Sri Lanka is playing in our interconnected world.

I appreciate your engagement at the United Nations, which is helping to forge shared solutions to our common challenges.

“Our global agenda includes five generational opportunities to create the future we want: promoting sustainable development, building a safer and more secure world, preventing crises, helping countries in transition, and doing more for the world’s women and young people.

“In order to rise to these challenges, I am conscious that we must strengthen our Organization. A more mobile, efficient and effective United Nations is essential to delivering for the world’s people.

“In this effort, I welcome the contribution, commitment and leadership of Sri Lanka in our quest to usher in a more just, peaceful and prosperous future for all people.

“Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.”