Kanni Wignaraja, the UN Assistant Secretary General, met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on October 14 at the President's Office to discuss support for Sri Lanka’s development initiatives.
Wignaraja presented the UNDP report titled "Understanding Multidimensional Vulnerabilities: Impact on the People of Sri Lanka," highlighting critical issues such as the low economic participation of women, particularly in rural areas where financial literacy remains a significant barrier.
During the meeting, President Dissanayake acknowledged Sri Lanka's agricultural productivity challenges compared to other Asian countries, saying that many farmers operate on small plots and often do not see farming as their primary income source. He outlined plans to strengthen farmers' associations to boost their bargaining power and improve agricultural practices.
The discussions also touched on electoral reforms, president pointed out the need for systems that ensure inclusive representation of the country’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.