Dream Big and Innovate for a Brighter Future - AKD

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said that the aspiration for Sri Lanka is to become a co-competitor among other states, with digitalization playing a crucial role in achieving this goal.

"Digitalization will be instrumental in raising up to that level," he added while speaking at the Innovation Island Summit in Colombo, where he highlighted the challenges Sri Lanka faces in the global economic race and emphasized the need for digitalization and innovation to elevate the country's status as a competitive player on the world stage.

"We are not a team that crossed the start line to run the race. Some have already run this race. We have to trail after them in this race. Our attempts are to pace forward, and become a co-competitor. We have not reached that position yet. We are facing an unfair race. As a result, it has negatively impacted the Sri Lankan economy, community, and livelihoods," stated President Dissanayake.

President Dissanayake extended an invitation to international partners and investors, encouraging them to bring their investments to Sri Lanka.

He emphasized that the country already has a positive environment for new innovation and business, along with a strategic location and a skilled workforce.

"Instead of a politically focused economy, we have a new government that focuses on the country's priorities," he said, highlighting the government's commitment to fostering a conducive environment for economic growth.

The President also called on local entrepreneurs and innovators to dream big and take risks.

"Dream Big. Don't be afraid to take the risk. Think beyond your boundaries. We are ready to support your idea from thought to end product," he encouraged.