We are stakeholders in country’s future

Ridma DISSANAYAKE

Sri Lanka is one of the most peaceful and stable nations in the Asian region. All of us are stakeholders in this country’s future, and we have an opportunity to build on the foundation of peace to take Sri Lanka to the next level, Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said.

“We need to move beyond our usual comfort zones, to contribute effectively to this national cause. We must look afresh at our strengths and opportunities,” he said.

“We must realize that there is great potential in Sri Lanka for its future growth. Sri Lanka is an attractive destination for foreign investments and tourist arrivals are also increasing constantly,” Secretary Rajapaksa said.

Domestic industries, service sector and agriculture sector in Sri Lanka also have the scope to grow much further. Because of that we must go beyond traditional boundaries and commit to achieving our shared destiny as a nation in individually or cooperatively without any matter”, he added.

The Defence Secretary was addressing the Seventh Annual Conference of the MBA Alumni Association of Colombo University at the Cinnamon Lake Side Hotel,yesterday under the theme of “Beyond Traditional Boundaries”.

“Commitment is one of the most important factors in any undertaking. The humanitarian operation that liberated Sri Lanka from terrorism is a good example for committed leadership which is leading to success. President Mahinda Rajapaksa, my self as the Defence Secretary,the Commanders and the Senior Officers of the Armed Services were fully committed to eradicating the terrorism from the country. The actions and words of each of these individuals constantly underscored their commitment. This was critical to long term success.”,the Defence Secretary said.

During the last stages of the war certain western governments with vested interests tried to intervene and halt the progress of the military. But the President, as Commander of Chief was the only person who could call and end to the war and through that incident any one can see the the commitment of his leadership.

Commitment, motivation,focus,positive thinking, clear mission, proper planning, proper management, supervision and delegation of responsibilities are the most important strategies of the leadership and appoint correct person to correct place is also helps to achieve the targets. Without proper guidance, a clear mandate and all above strategies no one can achieve their targets,he explained.

Sri Lanka was at a critical time in its history. With the defeat of terrorism the development activities has taken place. The government will do everything to create an environment conducive for economic development. This time is right for Sri Lanka to attain its rightful place in the world after a three decades of war,he further stated.

MBA Alumni Association of Colombo University Chairperson Pubudu de Zoysa,Sri Lanka and Maldives International Finance Corporation Country Manager Adam Sack,Sampath Bank Managing Director Aravinda Perera,Browns Group of Companies CEO and Group Managing Director Murali Prekash,Maliban Biscuit Manufactories Sales and Marketing CEO Ravi Jayawardena, Prime Land Group Chairman B.Premalal, Derana TV Chairman Laksiri Wickramage and a number of distinguished guests also participated.