Be Prepared for All Outcomes, Says President

COLOMBO (News 1st); A discussion aimed at identifying the possible economic impact of the ongoing war situation on Sri Lanka and the urgent steps required to manage it was held this morning under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The meeting took place at the Presidential Secretariat.

During the discussion, the President emphasized the importance of maintaining constant vigilance regarding emerging developments in every sector and stressed that challenges must be overcome collectively.

The President noted that although future scenarios cannot be predicted with certainty, Sri Lanka must monitor emerging developments in every sector continuously and work collectively to overcome the challenges ahead.

A lengthy discussion was held on the potential challenges that could arise regarding fuel and gas supplies, the need for proper stock management, as well as the possible impacts on the tourism, export, investment sectors, and food security, including the effect these could have on domestic inflation and the steps required to manage such risks.

The President also instructed officials to focus on ensuring that Sri Lanka maintains the economic stability it has achieved so far, while minimizing the impact on the daily lives of the public and maintaining control over inflation.

While current fuel reserves are deemed sufficient, attention was drawn to the need for maintaining and managing necessary stocks in anticipation of future risks, as well as the expected volatility in global fuel prices. 

The President examined the steps that may be required to manage these challenges.

Meanwhile, the President instructed the relevant agencies to ensure that all necessary facilities are provided to tourists currently affected.

Officials from the Ministry of Tourism pointed out that since the majority of tourists arriving in Sri Lanka come from Europe, and because they travel through the Middle East, discussions are underway on alternative aviation measures to ensure the continuity of the tourism industry.

According to the Presidential Media Division, attention was also directed toward identifying opportunities that may arise within the investment sector.