UN Envoy Meets AKD; Discusses Support

COLOMBO (News 1st); Kanni Wignaraja, the Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations (UN), met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake this morning (14) at the President's Office.

She presented the report on "Understanding Multidimensional Vulnerabilities: Impact on the People of Sri Lanka" to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Based on the findings of this report, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) assured its support for Sri Lanka's development efforts.

A key point of discussion was the low level of women's participation in the economy. 

The UNDP noted that rural women face significant challenges in financial literacy, limiting their involvement in economic activities. 

The farming sector, in particular, suffers from poor economic literacy, resulting in underrepresentation in the national economy. 

The UNDP expressed willingness to assist with digitalization programs, highlighting it as a critical tool to minimize corruption.

Discussing Sri Lanka's low agricultural productivity compared to other Asian nations, President Dissanayake explained that many farmers have small plots of land and do not view farming as their primary source of income. 

To address this, the government plans to strengthen farmers' associations, which would help improve bargaining power and agricultural activities.

Discussing reforms to the electoral system, President Dissanayake pointed out such reforms should ensure inclusive representation of ethnic and religious communities.