Economic freedom: President calls youth to the frontline

President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday declared that the Government would give priority to the young generation in the effort to achieve “economic freedom” as young people were the best placed to help build a knowledge-based innovative economy in the country.

The President speaking at the 69th Independence Day celebrations at the Galle Face Green said the country must achieve economic prosperity to safeguard full democracy in the 21st century.

He said that to build the country as a modern state compatible with the 21st century, the Government had to give priority to political stability and social development.

To achieve those goals, it was necessary to strengthen national and religious reconciliation and the Government had given priority to this , the President said.

"The Government has won national and international accolades for its commitment and determination to establish national reconciliation and peace."

Certain “opportunistic elements” are working against this mission and they need to be made aware they were working against the country, the President Sirisena added, insisting that such elements were working against the country, the President said.

He requested intellectuals and academics to provide guidance to the young generation in integrating the national economy with different economic processes and concepts such as knowledge economy, innovative economy, green economy, digital economy and oceans economy.

“When we work as a country, we have given priority, and dedicate ourselves with determination towards establishing economic freedom,” he stressed, pointing out that the Government had declared 2017 as the year of poverty alleviation.

To free the country from poverty, the Government expects the commitment and generosity of intellectuals, academics, politicians, public officials and the people in implementing national sustainable development policies and strategies, he said

“We are a strong, talented and efficient nation. Our people are educated and intelligent. We have the knowledge, resources and the ability to move forward as a nation. I request all to unite to build our nation,” the President said.

He emphasised that to achieve economic prosperity, politicians must be honest and committed. He expressed confidence that politicians and state officials would demonstrate this honesty and commitment in developing the motherland.

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