Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has appealed to foreign governments, international financial institutions, and global organisations to extend urgent support to Sri Lanka as the country continues to grapple with the widespread devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
Issuing a special statement, Premadasa expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, destruction of homes, and displacement of thousands of people. He said the Opposition stands firmly with all affected communities and will do everything possible to help ease their suffering.
Premadasa stated that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), Samagi Jana Sandhanaya, and the wider Opposition are prepared to mobilise every available resource—local and international—to rebuild the lives of those affected. He urged local philanthropists, charitable organisations, and international partners to extend maximum assistance to Sri Lanka during this critical moment.
He further called on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to ease the conditions imposed on Sri Lanka under the ongoing support programme, noting that the nation is facing an unprecedented tragedy. The Opposition Leader said that relaxing these conditions would help Sri Lanka prioritise relief, recovery, and livelihood restoration for the affected population.
Premadasa also appealed to the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and other international financial institutions to provide support to restore damaged communities and rebuild affected regions. Instead of burdening the country with more debt, he said urgent assistance is needed to help Sri Lanka recover.
Calling for a swift international response, the Opposition Leader urged the government to convene an emergency donors’ conference with global partners to secure meaningful and progressive assistance for national recovery. He affirmed that the Opposition is prepared to contribute fully to such an initiative.
Premadasa also emphasised that this is not a moment for political, ethnic, religious, caste, or party divisions. He urged the nation to unite as one, rise above narrow differences, and focus entirely on rebuilding the country and supporting the people who are suffering. (Newswire)