Aug 06, Colombo: United Nations Secretary General António Guterres has congratulated Ranil Wickremesinghe on assuming the responsibilities of the office of the President of Sri Lanka.

In a letter signed August 3, congratulating the President, the Secretary-General noted that the leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe will be critical in bringing stability and ensuring an environment conducive to ushering Sri Lanka out of the current challenges it is facing.

The UN Secretary-General has acknowledged the President’s commitment to forge a consensus among all political parties in formulating a national strategy to address these challenges.

He also encouraged dialogue among all stakeholders, including consultation with the public, while ensuring a respect for the rule of law and fundamental human rights principles.

Furthermore, the UN Chief welcoming Sri Lanka’s efforts towards women’s political participation encouraged the President’s leadership to accelerate progress.

“The United Nations is ready to support the government and people of Sri Lanka in meeting their immediate and long-term needs and is looking forward to continuing the cooperation of the United Nations in building peace, sustainable development and promoting human rights for all Sri Lankans,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said.