Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of women and girls, emphasizing the country’s determination to translate principles of equality and dignity into tangible action.
She made these remarks while attending the Opening Ceremony of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women 2025, held on 13th of October at the China National Convention Center (CNCC) in Beijing, at the invitation of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the Prime Minister’s Office said.
Upon her arrival, Prime Minister Amarasuriya was welcomed by Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan. Following President Xi’s address, several Heads of State and Government delivered their remarks, including Prime Minister Amarasuriya’s address.
In her speech, the Prime Minister reflected on the progress made since the 1995 World Conference on Women in Beijing, highlighting achievements such as higher female literacy, reduced maternal mortality, and increased life expectancy. However, she noted that significant challenges remain, including low labour-force participation among women, underrepresentation in science and technology fields, and persistent food insecurity and gender gaps in political leadership.
“The all-round development of women is a holistic process across education, health, the economy, politics, society, and culture—and it demands our continued commitment,” she said.
Dr. Amarasuriya also outlined Sri Lanka’s national commitments, including measures to increase women’s participation in leadership and decision-making, and to implement the National Policy on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment and the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (2023–2027) in alignment with CEDAW and UNSCR 1325.
She reaffirmed the government’s resolve to ensure inclusive representation of women from all social backgrounds, including working-class and marginalized communities, across all sectors.
Following the ceremony, the Prime Minister attended the official banquet hosted by President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan at the CNCC.
