President Maithripala Sirisena re-iterates that the government is not ready to accept any financial assistance granted by the tobacco manufacturing or cigarette companies. 

The government has its own revenue sources to implement the national health policy in this country. President Sirisena joining the committee stage debate, made these remarks while addressing the chamber. 

President further pointed out the main factor of the development is the health of the common public. He emphasized an effective development can be achieved only when we have healthy and physically fit human resources in the country.

President Sirisena further noted the tobacco and drug control activities in Sri Lanka are being carried out successfully according to the standards of UN organization. WHO and other leading UN organizations have commended the Sri Lankan government's efforts in controlling the drugs and tobacco usage in the country. 

President also stated the western medicine and the Ayurvedic medications have contributed a lot to the country's development process. 

These two medication methods have been recognized by the world countries. President also observed that the doctors and nurses leaving the country for foreign employment, has been a major problem for a long time. Therefore, he requested all doctors and nurses to minimize this menace and thereby serve the country for its betterment. President also requested the migrated doctors and nurses to come back to the country and help the nation in the development process. The government will give the due respect to those doctors who return from foreign countries. Meanwhile, inaugural session of 72nd annual conference of Sri Lanka Science Council was held today at BMICH under the patronage of the President. This session will be held from 7th to 9th of this month at the premises of university of Colombo. The theme conference will be held tomorrow at Sawsiripaya Colombo. Many scientists and research officers representing world countries will participate in this forum.