President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that the nation is undergoing a transformation in its Economy by embracing the changes advocated by the youth. This shift is aimed at driving the country towards rapid development under their leadership.
The fundamental Legislation pertaining to the establishment of the new Economy will be presented to Parliament in May and approved by June, he added.
President Wickremesinghe made this declaration on Sunday (7) during his address at the “Let’s Start with Me” Kandy District Youth Conference held at the President’s House, Kandy.
“If we fail to drive the country towards rapid development, its future remains bleak. It rests upon the youth to determine whether to allow the Economy to stagnate, advance it forward, or permit its collapse.
“If the Economic agenda of the present government is dismissed, the Economy of the country risks another collapse. Not everyone possesses the means to depart the country financially. Thus, it is incumbent upon all of us to collectively bolster the country’s Economy.
“The youth express dissatisfaction with the prevailing Economic framework within the country, clamouring for change. We are actively engaged in constructing a new Economic model to meet this demand. The foundational Laws necessary for this endeavour are to be presented to Parliament in May and enacted by June. Effecting change in the Economy necessitates a corresponding transformation in the country’s Legal framework.
“The collaboration of all government departments and corporations is essential in steering the nation towards rapid Economic advancement. If achieving this objective proves challenging, a revision of institutional structures becomes imperative.
“Furthermore, the country’s Economy cannot develop without parallel development in rural areas. Every prosperous nation has bolstered its Rural Agricultural Economy. Hence, we have initiated the Agricultural modernisation programme to introduce modern Agricultural practices to villages. In light of this, it falls upon the youth to determine whether to embrace change and drive forward or remain inert.
“When the United National Party (UNP) assumed power in 1977, President J.R. Jayewardene urged the youth to lead the nation forward, stating, “If you are prepared to take on this task, I am here to provide the requisite guidance.”
“In response, the youth actively engaged in the electoral process and drove the UNP to victory. Subsequently, President Jayewardene initiated the Mahaweli Programme, originally slated for a 30-year timeline, it was accomplished within a decade, providing the nation with essential electricity. During his tenure, two trade zones were established. Building on these initiatives, President R. Premadasa launched 200 Garment factories nationwide, bolstering the Rural Economy.
“As youth, we advocated for these programmes during that period. Today, if the youth are ready, let us embark on this journey together. Efforts are underway to enact the necessary Legislation to establish a new economy. Let us introduce the Economy Restructuring Act and commence this initiative. Additionally, endeavours are being made to introduce new Fiscal Legislation to regulate Government Finances.
“Despite women comprising the majority of the country’s population, their representation in the workforce remains insufficient.
“Consequently, we are introducing two new Bills aimed at safeguarding Women’s Rights. These initiatives will be presented to Parliament in May. We anticipate these measures to catalyse significant change within the country. I extend an invitation for you to join us in this endeavour for change.
“I will not tolerate any Party attempting to deceive you with falsehoods. I acknowledge your concerns, and it is imperative to emphasise that these new Laws are intended to address those very issues.”
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