UN’S role becoming more decisive: PM

PM’S congratulatory message In a congratulatory message to the newly appointed UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said he was confident that the UN, under the new leadership, will continue to assist and support Sri Lanka as it embarks on a much needed journey for meaningful peace, reconciliation and development.

He said that there is more than ever a need for the United Nations to take the lead and be more actively involved in the spheres of economic, social and political development.

“From peacekeeping to peace building, from development to human rights, the UN is the platform for nurturing harmony and development within and among States,” he said.

The Premier also said he was confident that Guterres would lead the UN in a path which would ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for the world.

Meanwhile, extending wishes on the appointment of the new UN Head, Foreign Affairs Minister Mangala Samaraweera said the unanimous election of Secretary General Antonio Guterres, at a time when the world and the UN itself face a multitude of challenges, reflects the trust placed in him by the Member States of the UN.

“I am confident that the vast experience and knowledge you bring to your new office, through the service to your nation as Prime Minister of Portugal and to the world at large as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, over a period of nearly two decades, will greatly benefit the United Nations and the international community,” he said.

“The National Unity Government of Sri Lanka has over the past one-anda-half years renewed and restored Sri Lanka’s engagement with the United Nations in a meaningful direction.as the Government and the people of Sri Lanka make the historic journey to achieve sustainable peace, reconciliation and development, we look forward to the continued support and assistance of the UN, under your able leadership,” he said.